Report: IDF and Mossad Set Plans for Potential Iran Strike

By Yoni Weiss

According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, informed sources suggest that an attack from Iran targeting either northern or southern Israel could occur within the next 24 to 48 hours. While one source mentioned that Iranian officials had contemplated but not finalized such plans, an American official indicated that any attack would likely target Israeli territory directly, rather than assets abroad.

The IRGC has reportedly laid out various operational plans to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, including a proposal for a medium-range missile strike. Recent online activity from IRGC-affiliated social media accounts includes simulated attack videos on strategic Israeli locations like the Dimona nuclear reactor and Haifa airport. Moreover, an Iranian official warned of potential strikes on Israeli water desalination plants and power stations if Israel were to retaliate.

Khamenei is weighing the political risks of direct military action against Israel, cautious of provoking a substantial Israeli counterstrike on Iranian infrastructure. The discussions also cover proxy strikes from Iraq and Syria, and potential attacks on the Golan Heights or even Gaza, aiming to keep strikes within regions not internationally recognized as Israeli territory. Another considered option includes targeting an Israeli embassy in an Arab country to signal the repercussions of diplomatic relations with Israel.

Israel has historically responded to Iranian aggression, including the assassination of Iranian scientists and a significant 2022 attack on an Iranian drone base in Kermanshah, which was reportedly aided by American intelligence. Despite aggressive rhetoric from Tehran, there is concern over a direct conflict, underscored by warnings that an Iranian strike would lead to IDF retaliation within Iran.

Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, after discussing the situation with U.S. counterpart Lloyd Austin, affirmed that the IDF is prepared to respond to any Iranian aggression. Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu echoed this readiness during a visit to an Air Force base, emphasizing Israel’s defensive and offensive preparedness.

General Michael Kurilla, U.S. CENTCOM commander, who recently visited Israel, met with IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi and toured the Air Force command center in Tel Aviv. He is scheduled for further meetings with IDF officials, including a visit to an air base with Gallant.

Meanwhile, the IDF has not yet issued new public safety instructions, indicating no immediate change in the security situation for Israeli civilians.