Israel is preparing for a worst-case scenario amid concerns from U.S. officials about the potential for a direct Iranian attack on Israeli soil, possibly within hours. This retaliation threat follows an airstrike nearly two weeks ago that resulted in the deaths of seven Iranian military officers.
Iran has vowed retribution for the loss of its commanders, who were targeted in an April 1 strike near the Iranian embassy in Syria’s capital. According to two U.S. officials, there is anticipation of a significant Iranian assault on Israel, potentially as early as Friday. This attack could involve over 100 drones and numerous missiles directed at military targets within Israel.
Sources indicate that the retaliation may involve actions by both Iranian forces and proxy groups across the region, which Iran has been supplying with additional weaponry in recent weeks. The officials noted the difficulty Israel would face in defending against such a substantial attack.
While there is a possibility that Iran may opt for a smaller-scale attack to avoid a major escalation, retaliation is considered imminent. When asked about the timing of a potential attack, President Biden stated on Friday, “I don’t want to disclose classified information, but my expectation is sooner rather than later.”
He urged Iran to refrain from taking action, conveying the message, “Don’t.”
Tehran has not publicly disclosed its plans for retaliation, leaving uncertainty about the extent of Iran’s potential actions. If Iran opts for a direct attack on Israel, there are concerns it could escalate the ongoing conflict with Hamas, an Iranian ally, into a broader regional confrontation.
As anticipation mounts for Iranian retaliation, the U.S. State Department cautioned Americans in Israel against traveling outside major cities, where the Iron Dome missile defense system provides better protection against incoming rocket attacks. The latest guidance also warned that travel for U.S. government employees in Israel could face further restrictions with little notice amid the volatile situation.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s readiness to respond to any aggression during his visit to troops at an Israel Defense Forces airbase, affirming, “Whoever harms us, we will harm them. We are prepared… both defensively and offensively.”