As tensions with Iran continue to escalate, IDF Chief of Staff, Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir, visited Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system at the Palmachim Air Force Base on Thursday.
Accompanied by Brigadier General K., the commander of the air defense unit, and other senior officers, Zamir visited the unit to assess its operational readiness. During his visit, he participated in a drill simulating a missile attack on Israel, which was specifically designed to train commanders for such emergencies.
Zamir engaged with commanders and soldiers, emphasizing the need to bolster preparedness for various air defense scenarios. The IDF remains on high alert to safeguard Israeli civilians and is committed to neutralizing threats across all fronts. Zamir’s inspection was part of a broader exercise aimed at enhancing Israel’s missile defense capabilities.
IDF is 'always ready'
"Every Israeli should know that the IDF is always ready to defend our country. We adapt our readiness based on a considered and measured evaluation of the situation. The Air Force, along with the entire IDF, serves as the shield for our citizens and the foundation of our security," Zamir said during his visit to the Iron Dome unit.
As part of his inspection, Zamir observed the operational systems and took part in a situational assessment with military commanders. He also led a simulation exercise for the air defense forces, ensuring the IDF is at peak readiness as the weekend approached.
A warning to Lebanon’s citizens
Amidst rising tensions, the IDF today struck Hezbollah’s military infrastructure in Lebanon. Earlier, IDF spokesperson Avichai Adraee issued a public warning to Lebanon’s citizens, particularly those in the southern region, advising that Israel would soon target Hezbollah’s infrastructure due to the group's ongoing attempts to rebuild its operations in the area.
Adraee also instructed residents near the targeted zones to evacuate: “For your safety, please evacuate immediately and remain at least 300 meters away from these sites,” he warned.
US President Donald Trump made it clear to his National Security team earlier Thursday that any military action against Iran must be swift, forceful, and decisive. The goal, according to an NBC report, is to strike a clear blow to the regime in Tehran without dragging the US into a protracted conflict lasting weeks or months. Meanwhile, both The New York Times and NBC have reported that not only Arab leaders but also Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have advised President Trump to delay any potential strike on Iran.
According to a US official and sources close to the White House, Trump emphasized that he does not want a prolonged conflict. "If he does something, he wants it to be final," one of the individuals involved in the discussions said. However, the president’s advisors have yet to convince him that a US strike would quickly lead to the collapse of the Iranian regime.