IDF on Alert for Surprise Scenarios with Iran

Stand for Israel  |  January 13, 2026

Israeli soldiers remove the remains of a missile fired from Iran a few weeks ago, near the southern Israeli city of Arad, May 2, 2024.
Photo: Erik Marmor/Flash90

The Times of Israel reports that the IDF is on alert for any unexpected or sudden developments involving Iran, as threats of potential U.S. intervention increase. This follows reports of the killing of anti-theocracy protesters, with death tolls estimated in the thousands. An internet blackout imposed by the Iranian regime since last week has made communication and independent assessments difficult.

As U.S. President Donald Trump is briefed today on possible diplomatic and military actions against Iran, the IDF is reviewing its defensive capabilities.

IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin urged the public not to “lend a hand to rumors” surrounding the situation in Iran.

“The protests in Iran are an internal matter,” he said in a post on X.

Defrin added that the IDF is “prepared defensively” and continues to conduct regular situational assessments, noting that updates will be provided if circumstances change.

Iran has stated that it is open to diplomacy, though an Israeli source warned that these statements may be intended to delay concrete actions such as military strikes. Iran’s foreign minister has also blamed the United States and Israel for the violence stemming from protests that began on December 28, though no evidence has been provided to support this claim.

Current U.S. actions include President Trump imposing tariffs on countries that do business with Iran, as well as Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite system offering internet access to Iranians. Meanwhile, the IDF has stated that it does not intend to strike first and will respond only if attacked, emphasizing that it is prepared to do so.

We pray for the Iranian people fighting for freedom and are deeply grateful for the continued dedication and readiness of the men and women of the IDF, while praying that the situation does not escalate into further conflict.