Israel has stepped up its military preparedness amid growing fears of an escalation in tensions with Iran. According to a report by Israel’s Army Radio, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have intensified readiness levels in anticipation of a possible military confrontation linked to Iran, placing several military units on high alert.
The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that a previously scheduled meeting of the political-security cabinet has been convened to discuss developments related to Iran. These measures come as regional tensions continue to rise against the backdrop of unrest inside Iran and sharp rhetoric from Washington.
Air defence systems adjusted as IDF raises alert
Israel’s public broadcaster Kan reported that changes have been made to Israel’s air defence systems over the past 24 hours. These adjustments include the deployment of the Iron Dome interceptor system as part of heightened defensive measures.
According to Israeli assessments, Iran is unlikely to directly attack Israel unless the United States launches a large-scale strike on Iranian territory. At present, there has been no order to immediately mobilise reserve soldiers and the IDF has not issued any official statement regarding the heightened alert.
The steps reportedly follow comments made by US President Donald Trump, in which he urged Iranians to continue protesting and stated that ‘help is coming.’
Iran protests: Death toll crosses 2500
Meanwhile, the death toll from the crackdown on protesters in Iran has risen sharply. A US-based human rights organisation reported on Wednesday that 2571 people have been killed in the ongoing unrest.
The figures were released by the Human Rights Activists News Agency, which is known for providing detailed and verified data during periods of violence and relies on sources inside Iran to confirm information. According to the organisation, the dead include 2403 protesters and 147 government personnel. Among those killed were 12 children and nine civilians who were not participating in the demonstrations.
Trump cancels talks, urges protesters to ‘take over’
US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he had cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials amid the violent crackdown on protests. Addressing Iranian citizens, he declared that ‘help is being sent,’ though he did not specify what form the assistance would take.
Trump’s remarks came after he said earlier this week that Iran had sought talks following Washington’s threats of military action against the Islamic Republic. He has repeatedly warned Tehran of military consequences if his administration determines that lethal force is being used against anti-government protesters, though he has not clarified whether a response decision has been made.
In a morning post on Truth Social, Trump wrote: ‘Iranian patriots, keep protesting — take over your institutions!!! Record the names of the murderers and oppressors. They will pay a heavy price. Until the meaningless killing of protesters stops, I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials. Help is coming.’
