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IDF readies for Iranian retaliation following airstrikes in Syria

While army is on high alert, no particular safety precautions are ordered for the public in the north.

By Batya Jerenberg, World Israel News

The IDF is girding itself to counter an expected Iranian reaction to some 20 airstrikes IAF jets carried out against its military positions in Syria on Tuesday night.

At least 23 people were killed in the attacks, which destroyed among other sites the reported headquarters of the Iranian Al Quds Force that was located at the Damascus airport.

Israel also destroyed several Syrian air defense batteries because they launched ground-to-air missiles to try and stop the IAF planes during the night-time raid.

The most straightforward way for Iran to retaliate would be to order its proxy Hezbollah to launch short-to-medium range missiles at Israel. Israel sent reinforcements to man Iron Dome systems in the northern part of the country, Israel’s Channel 12 reported Wednesday.

Since Tehran has terrorist clients at Israel’s borders in the south as well, the high alert extends to the Gaza border and air defense batteries there. The IDF must take into account that Iranian proxy Palestinian Islamic Jihad may renew its rocket barrage on southern communities.

Its two-day onslaught ended in a ceasefire with Israel last week.

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The PIJ violence was touched off by Israel’s assassination of one of its top military men, Baha Abu Al Ata.

Israel’s attack came in response to four rockets launched at the north Tuesday morning, which were shot down by Iron Dome batteries. IDF spokesman Brig. Gen. Hidai Zilberman warned that the IDF is ready to take further measures as well.

The army “is prepared to respond harshly to further attacks if necessary,” he said.

A senior security source told Israel Hayom on Wednesday that Israel was taking advantage of Iran’s current troubles to strike its most dangerous foe when it has been weakened.

These troubles include the financial crunch the Islamic regime has been feeling due to American sanctions, and the subsequent demonstrations now taking place in Iran over its decision to raise fuel prices.

Concern over Iran’s response was not great enough to disturb the routine of Israel’s northern residents, however.

Army commanders met with municipal and regional officials to fill citizens on the Golan about the current situation, but no bomb shelters were opened or warnings given for people to stay within range of their safe rooms.