Israel Raises Military Readiness Amid Threats from Iran and Hezbollah

Israel has raised its military readiness to a high level. This decision comes in response to concerns that Iran and the Lebanese group Hezbollah, which is recognized as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the European Union, may launch attacks on Israeli territory.

This is reported by The Wall Street Journal, citing sources.

The publication notes that Israel has observed preparations for attacks being made by Iran and Hezbollah, but it remains unclear whether an attack will actually take place.

According to Israeli army spokesperson Daniel Hagari, air patrols along the border with Lebanon have been intensified, and there are currently no new instructions for the civilian population.

Earlier, the commander of the Israeli Air Force ordered the cessation of military personnel's travels abroad.

Lebanese media report that Hezbollah has begun evacuating its offices in southern Beirut. The organization’s political headquarters are also closing down. Sources suggest that this could indicate an expectation of Israel’s response in case of an attack.

The U.S. has sent a submarine to the region and is accelerating the arrival of a second aircraft carrier, according to The Wall Street Journal.

U.S. President Joe Biden has consulted with leaders from Germany, France, Italy, and Great Britain to discuss the situation in the Middle East. A White House representative told AFP that Washington is prepared for the possibility of multiple attacks on Israel.

A statement from the leaders on the White House website calls on Iran to refrain from military actions against Israel.

At the same time, Fox News, citing sources, reports that an attack on Israel could occur within 24 hours.

Since the evening of August 12, Israel commemorates the ninth day of mourning for the destroyed Jerusalem temple.

Earlier, Iran vowed to take revenge on Israel for the assassination of Ismail Haniyeh, the leader of the Hamas group, on July 31 in Tehran. Hamas has been designated as a terrorist organization by the U.S. and the EU.

Israel has not confirmed its involvement in Haniyeh's death.