Israeli City Activates Shelters as Fears of US-Iran Tensions Grow
The Ashkelon municipality announced on its official Telegram channel that the shelter activation followed a declaration of a state of maximum alert late Wednesday in response to intensifying tensions in the Middle East.
“There is currently no warning or concrete indication of a direct threat to the city of Ashkelon,” the municipality said, stressing that the precaution was intended to “enhance residents’ sense of security.”
Officials’ move came soon after the Israeli military said on Wednesday night that it had elevated its defensive posture and was tracking developments across the region. That announcement triggered similar actions in several other communities, with municipalities in Beersheba, Gan Yavne and Dimona also opening public shelters Wednesday evening.
Pressure on Tehran from both the United States and Israel has intensified since anti government protests erupted across Iran on Dec. 28 over deteriorating economic conditions.
According to Israel’s public broadcaster, intelligence assessments suggest the US could launch military action against Iran “in the coming days,” and that Israel expects to be given several hours’ advance notice before any such strike.
Israeli officials have repeatedly accused Iran of rebuilding ballistic missile capabilities that were damaged during a 12 day conflict in June. Israel has reportedly sought US approval for potential strikes against Iranian targets, according to Israeli media.
Israel and Iran, long regarded as arch enemies, have frequently traded accusations involving sabotage, cyberattacks and other covert operations, underscoring deep seated hostilities that heighten the risk of wider confrontation.
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