Israel readies forces for possible involvement in US-Iran conflict amid rising regional tensions

Israel's defense establishment has placed the army, air force and military intelligence on heightened alert as the United States and Iran edge closer to direct conflict. Officials said the end of the World Cup could remove a remaining restraint on regional actors, increasing the chance of broader fighting. The IDF is preparing for scenarios that could involve large-scale Iranian missile attacks on Israeli population centers and critical infrastructure, as well as a possible escalation along the northern border with Lebanon.

The military's General Staff is focusing on timing and coordination, noting that any Israeli participation would likely be directed by Washington. A senior security official said, "The continuation of the exchanges between Washington and Tehran, and the fact that the Iranians are operating without restraint in the Gulf, increase the likelihood that Israel will be forced to enter the operational arena very soon."

Plans include both offensive operations and reinforced air-defence systems, while also considering the risk of miscalculation if Iran interprets Israeli activity as a pre-emptive strike. Israeli leaders acknowledge a strategic interest in striking Iran's nuclear program but warn that such action would carry immediate costs for civilian areas and could divert attention from the Lebanese front, potentially creating gaps in northern border operations.

The decision to intervene, officials said, would depend on U.S. strategic interests and would require direct coordination with the White House.