Israel is on high alert following warnings of a potential attack from Iran after the killing of a senior Iranian officer in Damascus. US intelligence indicates retaliation could occur as soon as Sunday, raising fears of a broader regional conflict. President Biden has sternly warned Iran against attacking Israel.
In response to the escalating tensions, countries including France, India, Russia, Poland, and the UK have advised against travel to Israel and the Palestinian territories. India has urged its citizens in Iran and Israel to register with their embassies and exercise extreme caution and all Indians are advised not to travel to Iran or Israel till further notice.
The US has deployed warships to the region and reinforced air defenses in Iraq and Syria, anticipating possible Iranian aggression. The Defense Intelligence Agency highlights Iran’s capacity to strike targets up to 2,000 kilometers away.
Hezbollah, from Lebanon, reportedly launched missiles at Northern Israel, targeting the Iron Dome interceptors. This followed an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus, leading Iran to declare its readiness for war.
Amid the tensions, the US has stepped up diplomatic efforts through channels like Switzerland, engaging with Iran and consulting allies including Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. General Michael Kurilla, head of US Central Command, has been sent to Israel for urgent talks.
Israel has implemented defensive measures, cancelling combat troops’ home leave, activating reserves, and disrupting GPS signals over Tel Aviv to thwart potential attacks. The region remains tense as the ‘shadow war’ between Israel and Iran intensifies.
