Israel Warns Iran Will Use Proxies Before Direct Conflict Escalates

Israeli security officials are closely monitoring a rising escalation between the United States and Iran, with concerns that Iran will deploy proxy forces before any direct military confrontation occurs. The Houthi rebels in Yemen have already positioned drones and missiles along the Red Sea coast to threaten the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and shipping lanes, prompting heightened alertness within the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).

Currently, Israel is not directly involved in the conflict, but the IDF remains prepared to defend and potentially launch a significant strike if necessary. Israeli defense sources emphasize that any Israeli attack would deliver a major blow to Iran. Coordination with the U.S. Central Command is ongoing to prevent surprises amid the volatile situation.

Tensions have intensified as U.S. President Donald Trump warned on social media that any Iranian attack on ships in the Strait of Hormuz would be met with U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including targets near Tehran. Iran responded with threats of retaliatory attacks on U.S.-linked sites. Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz has fundamentally changed, warning that if Iran cannot sell oil, no one else will.

The IDF stresses that the public will be informed promptly if the security situation changes. Meanwhile, the Houthis have already forced five tankers to alter their routes in the Red Sea following warnings not to dock at Saudi ports. This development reflects a broader pattern of escalating threats in the region, with Israel maintaining high vigilance amid the unfolding crisis.