In the wake of escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, recent developments suggest that Israel is poised to take preemptive action against Iranian targets if a direct attack is initiated by Tehran, according to a report from Elaph News, a London-based Arab outlet.

Citing insights from an anonymous “Western security official,” Elaph News reported on Monday that Israel has been actively engaging in air force drills, specifically focusing on preparations to target Iranian nuclear facilities and other critical infrastructure.

This revelation underscores the heightened state of alertness within Israel’s military apparatus amid mounting threats from Iran.

The report follows a series of provocations, including a strike in Damascus last week attributed to Israel, which resulted in the demise of Iran’s top commander in Syria, Mohammad Reza Zahedi, alongside other members of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and a member of the Hezbollah proxy group.

Amidst these tensions, unnamed US intelligence sources informed CNN that while Iran has issued threats of retaliation, it is unlikely to engage in direct aggression against Israel due to apprehensions regarding potential American and Israeli reprisals.

Instead, Iran may resort to urging its regional proxies to carry out attacks on its behalf in the coming days, according to the same sources.

The CNN report challenges previous assessments by Washington and Jerusalem that had suggested an Iranian attack on Israel was inevitable.

This newfound scepticism regarding Iran’s intentions underscores the complexity of the geopolitical dynamics at play and the uncertainty surrounding potential escalation in the region.

Israel’s heightened vigilance underscores the gravity of the situation and the perceived threat posed by Iran’s ambitions in the Middle East. With the spectre of conflict looming large, Israel remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding its national security interests.

As tensions continue to simmer, the international community is closely monitoring developments, wary of any escalation that could further destabilize an already volatile region.

The delicate balance of power and the intricate web of alliances in the Middle East underscore the need for diplomatic efforts to de-escalate tensions and prevent the outbreak of hostilities.

In the face of uncertainty, Israel stands ready to defend itself against any potential threats, reaffirming its resolve to protect its sovereignty and ensure the safety of its citizens.

However, the prospect of conflict underscores the urgent need for diplomatic engagement to address the underlying grievances and defuse tensions before they spiral out of control.

This article was created using automation and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members