Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly meeting with top officials to prepare for a possible attack by Iran, as tensions escalate following an air strike that killed senior Iranian commanders nearly two weeks ago. US officials have warned of a potential “challenging” major attack on Israel in the near future.
The possibility of an Iranian attack has led to concern and anxiety in Israel, with the government taking precautionary measures such as advising the population to stock up on essentials like water, food, and medicine. Israeli radio has reported that local authorities are preparing for the possibility of an attack by assessing the readiness of public shelters.
Last week, the Israeli military cancelled home leave for combat troops, bolstered air defenses, and called up reservists amid indications of a possible Iranian response. The missile strike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus on April 1st resulted in the deaths of thirteen people, including senior Iranian military leaders.
Officials in several countries, including the US, UK, India, and Australia, have warned against traveling to Israel due to the heightened tensions. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has been in talks with foreign ministers from China, Saudi Arabia, and Turkey to dissuade Iran from launching an attack on Israel, fearing it could lead to a wider regional conflict.
Despite the looming threat, some Israelis remain defiant, with one individual stating, “We are not afraid, I can promise you. Look around: people are going out.” The situation remains tense as Israel braces for a potential attack while seeking support from its allies to deter further escalation in the region.