Israel on High Alert Amid Fears of Escalation with Iran

Israel's air force has been placed on heightened alert due to concerns of a new escalation with Iran, according to Israeli security sources cited by Maariv. These fears stem from internal power struggles within Iran, worsening economic conditions, and increasing societal pressure, which could push the Iranian leadership toward risky actions. This comes amid renewed exchanges of fire between the U.S. and Iran. Recently, the U.S. struck Iranian forces on Larak Island, alleging preparations for missile and mine attacks near the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated with attacks on U.S. targets in Jordan and the UAE, reporting its own casualties while no American fatalities were confirmed. U.S. President Donald Trump subsequently threatened further strikes against Iran.

Israeli intelligence sources indicate that Iran's deteriorating economic situation and internal pressures are intensifying. A senior Israeli intelligence official suggested that the Iranian leadership might decide to attack Israel, partly due to internal power struggles. In such a scenario, Israel would likely respond with a significant military operation, potentially with U.S. support. However, Israel is not seeking to initiate a new conflict independently, viewing the current situation of U.S. sanctions and economic pressure as beneficial.

"The current situation is the most convenient and effective for Israel. Of all the worst options, this is the best," a security source stated. The Israeli military maintains a high state of readiness, with the air force capable of resuming operations against Iran on short notice. "We know how to restore the corridor to the center of Tehran in a short time," a security official said.

Israeli intelligence is closely monitoring internal divisions within Iran, particularly between factions advocating for an end to conflict and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which favors a harder line. Sources believe the IRGC might provoke an escalation to demonstrate strength and defiance against U.S. pressure. Israeli intelligence acknowledges that Tehran's decisions can be unpredictable, noting that Iranian missiles fired toward Jordan could have potentially reached Israel.

Israeli security services are evaluating several scenarios. Iran has not directly attacked Israel since the U.S. naval blockade began on April 13. This is attributed to Iran either preserving the option of attacking Israel as a strategic asset or fearing the consequences of an Israeli response. Should a conflict erupt, a primary Israeli objective would likely be to neutralize remaining elements of Iran's nuclear program, though strikes on military infrastructure would be secondary. Officials close to Prime Minister Netanyahu believe continued U.S. economic pressure is already significantly damaging Iran, making the preservation of the current situation Israel's priority.