Israel boosts alert level as US reportedly near possible Iran strike

2026-02-19 - 11:42

The Israeli army has raised its state of preparedness amid growing reports that the United States could launch a military strike on Iran in the coming days, Israel's public broadcaster KAN reported Thursday. Several US media outlets have indicated American forces are prepared to carry out a potential attack by the end of the week, though President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision. Military and Civilian Readiness Israeli military spokesman Avichay Adraee stated the army is "prepared and alert" in light of the possibility of a US strike, adding: "If we are attacked, we will respond forcefully." Alert levels have also been raised along Israel's northern border with Lebanon in case of escalation involving Hezbollah. Emergency services have been instructed to prepare for multi-front escalation. Unnamed Israeli officials said a heightened state of alert prevails across Israel as it anticipates potential fallout, noting the US would not undertake such a move without prior coordination. Diplomatic Context Israel's UN Ambassador Danny Danon said that while Trump favors a diplomatic solution, "the option of a strike on Iran remains on the table," calling on the public to be prepared for all scenarios. Danon declined to say whether Israel would receive advance notice, stating only that coordination remains at "the highest level." The developments follow two days after Washington and Tehran held indirect talks in Geneva under Omani mediation, with Iran reporting agreement on guiding principles while the US said significant details remain unresolved.