IDF Chief Confirms Hundreds of Jets on Immediate Alert Amid Iran Tensions

Israel Defense Forces Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir announced during the 192nd Air Force Wings Ceremony that the IDF is on full alert and ready to respond forcefully to any threat. He revealed that in recent weeks, hundreds of Air Force jets have been prepared for immediate takeoff, supported by tens of thousands of personnel including technicians, controllers, and logistics staff. Zamir emphasized close monitoring of developments in Iran and Lebanon, underscoring readiness for immediate action.

This statement comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, with the United States recently striking strategic targets in Iran, which retaliated by launching missiles at U.S. bases in the Gulf and Jordan. Zamir warned that Israel will respond strongly to any attempt to harm it, whether through direct attacks or attempts to redirect Iranian aggression toward American bases on Israeli soil.

Last week, Zamir conducted an operational tour in the Bofor Ridge area in Lebanon, reaffirming Israeli control and readiness to respond decisively if Hezbollah violates the ceasefire. Concurrently, IDF Operations Division Chief Major General Itzik Cohen ordered heightened alert levels across all military branches, including land, sea, air, cyber, and electronic warfare.

Security officials disclosed that the IDF and U.S. military have recently held scenario planning sessions to prepare for potential Iranian attempts to shift attacks toward U.S. bases in Israel, which house approximately 6,000 troops and hundreds of aircraft. Defense Minister Yoav Kitzinger also stated that if Iran attacks Israel, the IDF will respond with significant force.

The immediate readiness of hundreds of jets requires an extensive logistical operation, with Air Force personnel working around the clock to ensure all aircraft can launch at a moment’s notice. Command centers continuously analyze real-time developments in Iran and Lebanon to adjust force deployment accordingly. Zamir concluded by stressing the IDF’s preparedness to act swiftly and decisively in any scenario. Intelligence activity targeting Iran has notably increased recently due to concerns over Tehran expanding attacks into Israeli territory following U.S. strikes. Further updates are expected.