Israel is on high alert, anticipating an Iranian attack within the next 24 to 48 hours following a significant missile barrage by Hezbollah that left two IDF soldiers injured.

Top western diplomats have issued warnings about the imminent threat.

Secretary of State Anthony Blinken informed the G7 that Iran is expected to retaliate after Israel’s recent assassinations of Hamas political leader Ismail Haniyeh in Tehran and Hezbollah commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut.

This would mark the second direct attack by Iran on Israel during the current Middle East crisis, the first occurring in April with a salvo of missiles and drones.

Despite the uncertainty about the specifics of the impending strike, Iran has made clear its intentions.

‘Punish the Zionist regime’

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Nasser Kanani stated, “No one has the right to doubt Iran’s legal right to punish the Zionist regime,” reinforcing the nation’s stance.

Footage from the region showed Israel’s Iron Dome system intercepting the barrage of missiles, though two Israeli soldiers were wounded, and a fire was ignited in northern Israel. Hezbollah claimed responsibility for the attack, citing retaliation for Israeli actions in southern Lebanon.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and Revolutionary Guard General Hossein Salami have issued stern warnings to Israel. Salami declared that Israel is “digging its own grave” and will face consequences for its actions.

The escalation has heightened fears of an all-out war between Israel and Iran’s proxies in the Middle East. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged that Israel is in a “multi-front war” with Iran, asserting that the nation is prepared for any scenario.

The assassination of Hamas’ ceasefire negotiator Haniyeh and Hezbollah commander Shukr has also undermined diplomatic efforts led by American, Qatari, and Egyptian mediators.