Israel is anticipating a preemptive Iranian attack based on a possible US strike
Israeli Channel 12 reported on Friday that there are growing fears in Israel that Iran may carry out a “pre-emptive attack”, amid growing speculation that it will be targeted by a possible US military strike, as US forces continue to be mobilized in the Middle East.
According to estimates in the Israeli security establishment, this concern is represented in a miscalculation scenario that may lead Iran to believe that Washington’s decision to attack has been already made, which may prompt it to take the initiative to attack Israel before any US attack begins.
These estimates come against the backdrop of the US military’s completion in a few days of the deployment of large forces in the region, including aircraft carriers, warships, fighter jets and missile interception systems.
It also comes at a time when Israel is confirming that the military track has become more likely than the path of negotiations, despite public US statements about providing an opportunity for dialogue with Tehran.
Earlier on Friday, IDF spokesman Evie Devresin reiterated the high military readiness to face any sudden scenarios and stressed that they were fully prepared to defend and attack, noting at the same time that there have been no changes to the instructions of the home front.
On Monday, Channel 12 reported that the IDF is maintaining a very high degree of vigilance, based on the assumption that all scenarios are on the table and that the expected developments in the coming days may be pivotal.
The Israeli channel added that Israel is strengthening its air defense systems and offensive capabilities, amid the conviction that the US military option still exists, and that Washington is looking for the most appropriate time to act.
US President Donald Trump stopped a possible attack on Iran following diplomatic contacts with Tehran, logistical obstacles, and negative reactions from regional allies.
According to US officials, Trump was prepared to order an attack on Iran ahead of a meeting held at the White House on that country, on January 13.
According to the report, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu told the US president that Israel isn’t prepared for a possible Iranian response and that the proposed US plan doesn’t have enough force.
Pressure from the United States and its ally Israel on Tehran has been mounting since popular demonstrations began in Iran in late December 2025, protesting the deteriorating economic and living conditions.
Tehran, on the other hand, accused Washington of seeking through sanctions and pressure, provoking unrest and spreading chaos, to create a pretext for military intervention and regime change.
