Israel Prepares for Iranian Retaliation Amid Escalating Regional Tensions

Israel has decided to respond to any Iranian missiles or fragments that reach its territory, even if they are primarily aimed at American targets in the region. This decision comes amid escalating confrontation between Washington and Tehran and security assessments of a potential slide into a wider conflict. The Israeli decision followed intensive Israeli monitoring of recent Iranian attacks on U.S. bases in the Middle East, particularly in Jordan. Iran launched 20 missiles Tuesday night towards American targets in Jordan, with interception attempts observed over the country. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed responsibility for targeting a U.S. base in Jordan, though a U.S. official reported no American casualties. Israeli security agencies view these recent attacks as an increase in the scale and boldness of Iranian operations, attributing them to U.S. economic pressure on Tehran. Israeli security sources indicated a "potential for escalation" and that the Israeli military is maintaining a very high state of alert, both defensively and offensively, in coordination with the United States. The report added that Israel and the U.S. are prepared for joint operations if a political decision is made, though details were not provided. Jordan has become a focal point for direct confrontation between Iran and the U.S. in recent months, with repeated targeting of U.S. bases within the kingdom.

In parallel, U.S. maritime pressure on Iranian oil exports is reportedly impacting Tehran's ability to export crude and acquire foreign currency. According to the Wall Street Journal, Iran has not exported new crude oil since mid-July due to the U.S. blockade. Stored oil on tankers outside the blockade zone has significantly decreased from approximately 90 million barrels in mid-July to about 29 million barrels currently. This stored oil, while still a revenue source, is rapidly depleting and could run out by mid-October if current consumption and export rates continue. These developments are significant for Iran's economy, as oil revenues typically constitute about a third of the state budget and are a primary source of foreign currency for imports and supporting the national currency, the rial.