Israel Prepares for Possible Iran Escalation as Netanyahu Holds Security Meeting

Israel is preparing for a potential escalation involving Iran as early as this weekend, with the possibility of retaliatory missile fire. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to hold a focused security discussion on Friday afternoon to address the situation. Meanwhile, the Home Front Command has updated its guidelines amid rising tensions.

U.S. President Donald Trump commented earlier to Axios that he is close to making a decision and is considering a "massive attack larger than anything before." Trump also stated that if he requests it, Israel would join the campaign. A senior Israeli officer noted that unlike previous conflicts, Iran's ballistic missile systems are now ready for near-immediate launches toward Israel in a war scenario. The Israeli Air Force faces the challenge of quickly striking Iranian missile batteries.

In response to the heightened threat, several Israeli cities including Ramat Gan, Karmiel, and Eilat have proactively opened public bomb shelters despite no current directive from the Home Front Command. Eilat's Mayor Eli Lankri ordered the opening of shelters and increased emergency patrols, emphasizing the importance of public readiness and adherence to official instructions. He also highlighted the city's comprehensive defense measures on land, sea, and air.

Ramat Gan's Mayor Carmel Shama-Hacohen announced the opening of all city shelters, citing an increased risk of missile attacks from Iran over the weekend. He urged residents to refresh their knowledge of shelter locations and emergency procedures, reassuring them of the IDF and Air Force's protective capabilities. Similarly, Karmiel's Mayor Moshe Kuninsky opened all public shelters days ago and encouraged residents to maintain emergency readiness while avoiding panic.

Authorities stressed that the shelter openings are precautionary and that there is no immediate cause for alarm. Residents are advised to follow official Home Front Command guidelines and maintain vigilance. Municipal emergency hotlines remain operational 24/7 to assist the public.