Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, Israel remains on high alert following warnings of potential retaliation from Iran or its proxies in response to the recent killing of a senior Iranian officer in Damascus. The situation has prompted several countries, including India, France, Poland, and Russia, to caution against travel to the region, which is already grappling with ongoing conflict, including the Gaza war.

The White House National Security Council has acknowledged the credible threat posed by Iran, urging vigilance among civilians. Israel's military has conducted a comprehensive situational assessment and has prepared for various scenarios following reports of an imminent Iranian attack.

Reports suggest heightened security measures, including partial evacuations of Israeli diplomatic missions and increased security protocols, although Israeli officials have not officially confirmed these measures. Israeli media, reflecting public anxiety, speculate that retaliation could come within days.

The airstrike on April 1, which resulted in the death of Brigadier General Mohammad Reza Zahedi and other Iranian officers in Damascus, has escalated tensions significantly. While Israel did not claim responsibility for the attack, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has vowed retaliation, likening the strike to an assault on Iranian soil.

Experts, however, believe that Iran is cautious about escalating to full-scale military confrontation, preferring to avoid direct conflict with Israel or the United States. Nonetheless, concerns persist that any retaliatory action could spiral into wider conflict.

In anticipation of potential escalation, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and army chief General Herzi Halevi have held discussions with U.S. Central Command General Michael Kurilla to coordinate response strategies.

Given Iran's perception that the embassy attack was tantamount to an attack on Iranian territory, analysts warn of the possibility of a direct Iranian strike on Israeli soil, rather than through proxies like Hezbollah in Lebanon.

Israel has bolstered its air defenses in recent weeks, citing the threat posed by missiles from Hamas in Gaza and Hezbollah in Lebanon. The Israeli military has recalled reservists and prepared for potential escalation along the northern border, where clashes with Hezbollah are frequent.

Recent rocket launches from Lebanon into Israel have further escalated tensions, although most were intercepted, with no injuries reported.

While Israel braces for potential retaliation, preparations have included adjustments in daily life, such as children being advised to bring school books home for the Passover holidays, anticipating possible disruptions due to heightened security concerns.

The region remains on edge as the specter of retaliation looms, underscoring the delicate balance in a volatile geopolitical landscape.