IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, center, speaking to commanders and soldiers in the Golan Heights on Dec. 13, 2024. Photo: IDF.

JNS.org – IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi has placed the military on high alert amid concerns that Iran may resort to “extreme measures” against Israel.

While the likelihood remains low, security officials warn that shifts in the regional strategic landscape could push Tehran toward a violent confrontation with Jerusalem, the Walla news site noted on Sunday.

These concerns arise against the backdrop of Iran’s domestic turmoil and the weakening of its regional terrorist proxies after more than a year of war. The Islamic Republic is grappling with a collapsing currency, domestic unrest and anticipated increased US pressure under incoming President Donald Trump.

The IDF cautions that Trump’s unpredictable Middle East policy could alter the strategic balance through military actions against Tehran’s nuclear program or severe economic sanctions.

Meanwhile, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is warning of the serious consequences of any additional Israeli airstrikes on Iran.

“We are fully prepared for the possibility of further attacks by Israel,” Araghchi told China’s state-run CCTV in comments that aired on Saturday. “I hope Israel will refrain from taking such reckless actions as it could lead to a large-scale war.”

The Israeli Air Force attacked Iranian territory twice last year, in April and October, in response to Tehran’s drone and missile launches on Israel. Iran is worried about another direct strike by Israel on its strategic sites soon.