Israeli Military Chief Warns Iran Tensions Could Escalate Rapidly as US-Iran Truce Expires

A ceasefire between the United States and Iran, which began two months ago following a memorandum of understanding, is set to expire this evening without a clear agreement on Iran's nuclear program or the Strait of Hormuz. The truce, effective since June, was intended as an immediate and permanent halt to military actions on all fronts but has rapidly deteriorated. On July 7, US President Donald Trump declared the agreement "over," while Tehran repeatedly accused Washington of violating its commitments.

Israeli defense officials, including Defense Minister Yoav Katz and IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, have instructed the military to prepare for all scenarios, both defensive and offensive. The Military Intelligence Directorate has updated its threat models and target lists concerning Iran, while operational, planning, and air force units have refined their situational assessments and coordination with the US military and regional countries.

A senior Military Intelligence officer recently warned that the situation could deteriorate within hours, days, weeks, or months, emphasizing the need for the Israel Defense Forces to remain vigilant. The ceasefire was not meant to automatically end after 60 days but to allow time for a final agreement, which has yet to be reached. It remains unclear whether President Trump will extend the negotiation deadline or take unilateral actions.

The expiration of the ceasefire at approximately 18:00 today marks a critical juncture amid ongoing regional tensions, with Israeli security officials maintaining a cautious stance throughout the truce period and beyond.