Israel's defense establishment has elevated its alert posture in response to Iran, as behind-the-scenes contacts aimed at reviving negotiations between Tehran and Washington show signs of strain.
According to a report by Nir Dvori on Channel 12 News, Israeli officials characterize the current moment as a period of acute tension, in which the failure of diplomatic outreach could precipitate a swift deterioration.
Security sources told Channel 12 that Israel is closely monitoring the contacts and believes efforts to reach understandings are still underway. At the same time, preparations are being made for the possibility that the diplomatic initiative will collapse and lead to renewed escalation.
A senior security official told Channel 12: "The situation is sensitive and fluid, we don't know where this will develop, it doesn't look like the Iranians are ready for compromises; things could spiral out of control."
One scenario under consideration is that if negotiations reach an impasse, or if Tehran fears the United States is planning a move against it under the guise of engagement, the Iranians may opt for a preemptive strike. The first targets could be American forces and interests in the Gulf and across the Middle East, though the possibility of an attack on Israel is also on the table.
IDF forces are preparing both for defensive scenarios and for the possibility they will be required to launch offensive operations, with preparations being coordinated with the U.S. military.
