The IDF raised its alert level to the highest since Operation Lion's Roar in February, after intelligence indicated the US is preparing 'unusually large-scale' strikes on Iran, according to Kan News. The report states heavy bombers may be used for the first time, targeting Iran's fortified Pickaxe Mountain facility. Israeli defense officials warned of a credible risk of surprise Iranian retaliation, prompting reinforcement of air defense systems.
The Zioneer can now report, based on a Kan News report citing Israeli defense officials, that the US is preparing to use heavy bombers for the first time in the escalation against Iran, with the fortified Pickaxe Mountain facility (Har Hamakosh) believed to be a key target. The IDF has raised its alert level to the highest since Operation Lion's Roar in February, and air defense systems have been reinforced. Israeli officials warn of a credible risk of surprise Iranian retaliation.
The alert was first reported by The Zioneer at 18:37 Jerusalem, when an Israeli security assessment warned of a real concern of a surprise Iranian attack following intelligence of extensive US strikes in the coming days. By 19:14 Jerusalem, the desk reported that the assessment had narrowed to strikes expected within 48 hours. At 20:21 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported that the US had informed Israel of planned heavy bomber strikes for the first time. The latest Kan News report, at 20:52 Jerusalem, adds specificity to the target and scope.
The Zioneer has been tracking the escalating US-Iran confrontation for weeks. On June 14, the desk reported that Israel braced for possible Iranian missile fire as the US applied heavy pressure on Tehran. On July 7, a source close to Iranian Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf said confrontation with the US was likely in hours, as Iran prepared to escalate in the Strait of Hormuz. On July 15, i24NEWS reported that Israeli officials assessed the US was accelerating preparations for renewed conflict with Iran.
What remains open: The Kan News report is sourced to anonymous Israeli defense officials and has not been independently verified. The exact timing of the strikes, and whether Iran will retaliate, remain uncertain. The Zioneer continues to monitor the situation.
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