US Strikes Iran Amid Rising Tensions; Israel Prepares for Possible Retaliation

The United States has intensified its military strikes against Iran, targeting over 90 sites including strategic locations such as Bushehr, Bandar Abbas, and Chabahar. These attacks follow earlier strikes and come amid escalating tensions between the two countries. A US official told CNN that President Donald Trump's decision for additional strikes was driven by frustration over the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and recent attacks on ships passing through this vital oil route during his NATO summit participation. Iranian Revolutionary Guards responded by attacking US military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain.

Explosions were reported in several Iranian ports, including Bushehr, Bandar Abbas, and Sirik. The Revolutionary Guards declared their retaliation against American bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, signaling a direct response to the US airstrikes on Iran's strategic infrastructure. Meanwhile, the US is reportedly engaging in behind-the-scenes talks to de-escalate the situation, although Trump warned that attacks would intensify if Iran continues to target vessels in the Strait of Hormuz, stating that the ceasefire "has ended." Iran's chief negotiator emphasized that the Strait will only reopen under Iranian terms, rejecting American threats.

In Israel, the military is on high alert for potential Iranian retaliation. A security official stated that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have prepared all defense systems for any scenario, including threats from Lebanon, but so far no unusual Iranian missile activity targeting Israel has been detected. The IDF is monitoring the situation closely, with contingency plans for various responses depending on the scale of US attacks and Iranian reactions.

Israeli defense and political leaders have publicly warned that any Iranian strike on Israeli territory would provoke a strong military response. Some military officials see renewed conflict as a way to strengthen Israel's negotiating position on nuclear and missile issues and to degrade the Revolutionary Guards’ capabilities. The IDF is prepared for both defensive and offensive operations, including possible strikes in Beirut and along the "Blue Line" against Hezbollah. Intermediate scenarios foresee limited reciprocal attacks between the US and Iran, which Tehran might tolerate without escalating to broader regional conflict.

A high alert status remains in Israel’s air force, air defense, and combat squadrons. An assessment meeting is scheduled for Thursday, led by Defense Minister Israel Katz, with intelligence chiefs from Aman and Mossad presenting regional updates and strategic evaluations.