Israel on High Alert Amid Possible US Action in Iran

January 11, 2026

New Delhi: Hours after US President Donald Trump hinted at a possible American role in Iran, Israel has reportedly gone on high alert, anticipating any potential US intervention as the Middle Eastern nation grapples with its largest anti-government protests in years.

According to Reuters, which cited three officials present at recent Israeli security meetings, Israel is closely preparing for possible US action in Iran, where violent demonstrations have reportedly claimed more than 100 lives.

Netanyahu–Rubio Talks on Iran Situation

The report said that during a phone call on Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the unfolding crisis with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two leaders reportedly spoke about the likelihood of American involvement in Iran, highlighting the seriousness of the situation.

Trump Signals Support for Protesters

In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, President Trump openly expressed support for the protesters, suggesting that Iran was approaching a moment of change.

“Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Trump wrote.

In recent days, the US president has issued repeated warnings, cautioning Iran’s leadership against using force on demonstrators and hinting at possible intervention if the situation worsens.

Iran Blames US for Unrest

Iranian authorities have accused the United States of instigating the protests, which initially began in Tehran two weeks ago over economic grievances before spreading nationwide. Over time, the demonstrations evolved into broader calls for the removal of the clerical leadership.

Harsh Crackdown and Threats of Death Penalty

The country’s Attorney General, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, issued a stern warning to protesters, stating that participants could face charges as “enemies of God,” an offence that carries the death penalty under Iran’s Islamic law, according to a Bloomberg report.

Rising Death Toll in Protests

Meanwhile, the human cost continues to mount. A recent report by the Associated Press, citing a US-based human rights group, stated that at least 116 people have been killed since the protests began on December 28.