Israel Warns Iran Will Use Proxies Before Direct Conflict Escalates

Israeli security officials are closely monitoring a developing escalation between the United States and Iran, anticipating 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 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 significant strikes if necessary. Israeli defense sources emphasize the seriousness of any future Israeli attack on Iran, describing it as a major blow. Coordination between Israeli security agencies and the U.S. Central Command is ongoing to prevent surprises and misunderstandings amid the volatile situation.

The escalation follows a series of threats exchanged between U.S. President Donald Trump and Iranian officials. Trump warned that any Iranian attack on ships in the Strait of Hormuz would result in U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, including targets near Tehran. Iran responded with threats to retaliate against U.S.-related infrastructure. Trump later declared he had ordered the U.S. Central Command to "open the gates of hell" in response to attacks on American forces.

Iranian negotiator Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared that the situation in the Strait of Hormuz would not return to normal, warning that if Iran cannot sell oil, no one else will. Meanwhile, five oil tankers recently altered their routes in the Red Sea following Houthi warnings against docking at Saudi ports, illustrating the rising tensions in the region.

Israeli officials stress that the public will be updated promptly should the security situation change, underscoring the sensitivity of the current period and the ongoing vigilance in the Gulf region.