Israel fears surprise Iranian attack amid ceasefire talks, reports say
Israeli military officials cited by Reuters said Tel Aviv has raised its readiness level against the possibility of a surprise Iranian strike during the final phase of ceasefire talks. Shelter networks in the north have been re-tested. The United States said Tehran has been giving signals 'consistent with sincere negotiations'.
According to a general staff source quoted by Reuters, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) raised the readiness level of its air defence systems 'by three grades' in the past 48 hours. In northern towns such as Haifa, Akko and Nahariyya, shelter alarm systems were tested and drills were carried out in schools. Additional defence batteries are reportedly being deployed along the Tel Aviv coastline.
US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce told reporters that Iran has been sending 'clear signals consistent with sincere negotiations'. In response, the Israeli Defence Ministry noted that Tehran had displayed 'deceptive postures' during past diplomatic windows. In an address to the nation, President Isaac Herzog said 'we must be prepared but we must not be afraid'.
Regional risk assessments have prompted the US embassies in Jeddah, Riyadh and Manama to advise staff 'to avoid unnecessary travel'. Air traffic agency Eurocontrol said it is re-assessing flights in specific corridors of the Eastern Mediterranean airspace. The risk premium in the Brent oil market has climbed back to the $8-$10 range.
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