TEL AVIV (TheCOWNews Digital) Israel has declared a nationwide state of emergency following its preemptive airstrikes on Iran, amid escalating tensions and fears of imminent retaliation from Tehran. Defense Minister Israel Katz made the announcement early Friday morning, citing a heightened threat of missile and drone attacks from Iran in response to the Israeli offensive.
The emergency measures were activated shortly after 3:00 a.m. local time, when air raid sirens blared across Jerusalem, and citizens received emergency alerts via mobile phones warning of potential danger. The alerts triggered widespread panic, sending residents rushing to bomb shelters and designated safe zones.
In a statement, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed that new guidelines from the Home Front Command had come into effect. These include severe restrictions on public movement and gatherings. All educational institutions across the country have been shut down indefinitely, and non-essential offices and businesses have been ordered to remain closed. Only critical services such as hospitals, security forces, and emergency responders will continue operations.
“The threat from Iran is real and immediate,” the IDF said in its official communication. “Following our preemptive action against Iranian targets, we are now facing a significant risk of retaliatory attacks against Israeli civilians and infrastructure. As a result, emergency protocols have been enacted across the nation.”
Defense Minister Katz urged Israeli citizens to comply strictly with all official instructions and remain in safe locations. “We are facing a sensitive and dangerous moment. The Iranian regime may attempt to target our people and vital systems. Every citizen must act responsibly and follow the guidelines issued by security authorities,” he stated.
Security analysts believe that the emergency declaration is part of a broader Israeli defense strategy in anticipation of Iranian counterstrikes, which could include ballistic missiles, drone swarms, or cyberattacks. Israeli military units remain on high alert, and missile defense systems, including the Iron Dome and David’s Sling, have been activated across key urban centers.
Reports suggest that Israel’s preemptive airstrikes earlier in the day were aimed at Iran’s nuclear infrastructure and high-ranking military officials. While the Israeli government has confirmed the operation, Iran has yet to officially respond, though its leadership has hinted at “appropriate retaliation.”
The United Nations and several global powers have expressed grave concern over the escalating conflict, urging both nations to exercise restraint. However, with both sides on high alert, the risk of a broader regional confrontation appears increasingly likely.
This is one of the most serious national emergencies Israel has declared in recent years, reflecting the volatile state of affairs in the Middle East. With air raid sirens continuing to sound and the skies tense, millions of Israeli citizens are bracing for what could become a prolonged conflict.
