The Israeli security establishment estimates that, should a US attack on Iran take place, the occupation army will be requested to implement a series of measures aimed at enhancing “Israel’s” defensive readiness. These steps, however, would only be carried out during the final stages of operational assessments.
According to a report by Maariv’s military correspondent, Avi Ashkenazi, the measures would include mobilising reserve forces for the Central Command, Northern Command and the Home Front Command.
The report stated that the Israeli army currently operates five regular battalions affiliated with the Home Front Command brigade, in addition to several reserve battalions under the same command. These units are presently engaged in operational service, performing light infantry duties in the West Bank and along the eastern border.
Ashkenazi explained that these battalions play an operational role in rescue and relief during emergencies. Accordingly, once a US strike begins, the Israeli army would redeploy these battalions to their designated operational roles. To compensate for their redeployment, reserve battalions would be called up to assume frontline duties.
He further noted that, in light of the possibility of Hezbollah entering the confrontation from Lebanon, the Israeli army would reinforce its military infrastructure with reserve forces in certain formations of Division 91, as well as in the Bashan Division in the occupied Golan Heights. Reinforcements would also include general naval coalition forces, special units, and medical evacuation and rescue forces.
Ashkenazi confirmed that the Home Front Command would oversee the majority of reserve mobilisations in the event of a US attack. This could necessitate the mobilisation of all rescue battalions, search and rescue units, liaison units with local authorities and hospitals. In addition, the Israeli army indicated that all air force defence and offensive systems would be activated should developments arise with Iran. The air force has completed the deployment of its defence systems and, in recent weeks, has enhanced systems tailored to both defensive and offensive scenarios.
The occupation army estimates that “Israel” would receive several hours’ warning before any US strike. This would allow for the simultaneous implementation of preparedness measures, reinforcement of the Israeli home front and the elevation of the air force, Division 91 and the Bashan Division to a higher state of alert and readiness.
