Israel Prepares for Potential Iran Strike, Leveraging Lebanon Operations

Following successful operations against underground infrastructure in Lebanon, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) may leverage this experience for potential actions against Iran, according to military correspondent Avi Ashkenazi of the newspaper Maariv. Ashkenazi assesses that the current Middle East situation indicates a further escalation, prompting Israel to enhance its readiness for possible operations targeting Iran. Israel is simultaneously refining its methods for combating underground facilities and employing robotic technologies.

Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that if Iran attacks Israel, the response will be significant and could target key Iranian energy infrastructure. Katz emphasized that the IDF is on high alert and prepared for its mission, warning that an Israeli strike could set Iran back decades and increase pressure on its leadership.

Ashkenazi highlights that Israel has gained substantial experience countering Iranian infrastructure in Syria and Lebanon. Operation "Many Roads" in September 2024, where the Shaldag special forces unit raided a major underground facility near Masyaf, Syria, was a key event. Subsequently, Israeli forces engaged tunnel networks in southern Lebanon, including facilities for Hezbollah's drone operations. The IDF has continued to build expertise in subterranean warfare in areas like Beaufort and the Ali-Taher ridge, with this experience now being applied by multiple Israeli units.

Robotic systems represent another focus, with some technologies already deployed by the IDF in Gaza and Lebanon, including for underground infrastructure operations. Ashkenazi suggests that post-Syria and Lebanon operations, the IDF possesses both the experience and the technologies suitable for confronting Iran's underground facilities. Earlier reports indicated Iran is accelerating arms production in preparation for a new phase of conflict.