Israel on High Alert as US and Gulf States Push for Iran Ceasefire Amid Rising Tensions

The Israeli military is on heightened alert amid escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, with senior Israeli officials preparing for a potential rapid response. According to reports, Iran's leadership is debating whether to involve Israel in the conflict, aware that Israeli engagement would impose a heavy cost on the Iranian regime. Meanwhile, Qatar, Pakistan, and Saudi Arabia are actively mediating a proposed 10-day ceasefire to de-escalate the situation, aiming to revive a previous US-Iran understanding.

US President Donald Trump is reportedly under pressure to accept the Qatari ceasefire proposal, though Washington insists on a longer truce tied to arrangements in the strategic Strait of Hormuz. Trump is also considering a broad military plan that could destabilize the Iranian regime, with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu believed to be a key advocate behind this strategy. Netanyahu is expected to hold a security meeting at the Kirya military base with top defense officials and ministers.

Earlier, Iran confirmed it received proposals to reduce tensions, which are currently under review. Despite regional efforts for calm, Houthi rebels in Yemen declared a naval blockade against Saudi Arabia and threatened to attack any ships approaching or leaving Saudi ports, escalating Red Sea tensions and continuing their recent threats against Israeli vessels.

The US launched its ninth wave of airstrikes against Iranian military targets overnight, focusing on capabilities threatening shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Israeli security sources monitor the situation closely, particularly fearing Iranian missile attacks on airbases hosting US aircraft. A senior IDF officer stated, "The security system is alert, if attacked, we will defend ourselves promptly."

In Pakistan, mediators including Qatar and Pakistan have submitted multiple proposals to both the US and Iran to end the escalation. Iranian Interior Minister Askandar Momeni is expected to visit Pakistan with a special message from President Ebrahim Raisi regarding negotiations. However, US officials have yet to accept the proposed 10-day ceasefire, which aims to revive prior agreements between the parties.