Gallant: "There is a psychological attempt by the enemy to sow fear"

Gallant at the situational assessment meeting earlier today background — Photo: Ariel Hermoni/Ministry of Defence

In light of the security tensions and preparation for an Iranian response, Defence Minister Yoav Gallant conducted a special situation assessment today (Thursday) regarding home front readiness. The meeting, which took place at the Home Front Command's operations centre, addressed the preparedness of the population for transitioning to an emergency state and the required expectations in light of the security developments.

"We are continuously assessing the situation; we are at a high level of defence readiness across all parameters, some of which are covert and some visible to the public," said Defence Minister Gallant at the end of the situation assessment. "The resilience and response of the Israeli public is a key factor that allows us to make correct operational decisions. The enemy is attempting a psychological operation to spread fear, tell stories, and instill terror. In response, we need to focus on the right and essential things, provide for the public, and mainly ensure that the public listens to the Home Front Command's instructions—that is the authority, and that is how we should address the public."

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He added, "We are working to ensure that we are able to provide adequate warning to the public when necessary and, until then, allow for as normal a way of life as possible. On one hand, vigilance; on the other hand, a great responsibility on the IDF, the Ministry of Defense, and the Home Front Command as the leaders in this matter. And when needed, we will say what needs to be said."

The situation assessment was attended by: Ministry of Defence Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Eyal Zamir, Deputy Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Amir Baram, Home Front Command Commander Maj. Gen. Rafi Miloh, Head of the Planning Directorate Maj. Gen. Eyal Harel, Chairman of the Local Authorities Association Haim Bibas, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Defense Mordechai Benita, National Emergency Authority Head Yoram Laredo, and other security officials.