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In response to escalating threats from Iran, the Israeli military has suspended all leave for its combat units. This decision follows an incident earlier this week involving an Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Syria, which resulted in the deaths of two high-ranking generals.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) announced the halt on Thursday, citing the need for continuous readiness and assessment of military deployment based on the evolving situation. “The IDF is at war and the deployment of forces is under continuous assessment according to requirements,” stated the military on Telegram. This move aims to maintain heightened vigilance and readiness in the face of increased threats.

The strike on Monday, targeting the Iranian consulate adjacent to Tehran’s embassy in Damascus, led to significant casualties. Among those killed was a senior commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Quds Force, a key figure in Iran’s military operations in Lebanon and Syria, another high-ranking general, and five officers. This incident has drawn a sharp vow of retaliation from Iran, marking a significant escalation in the hostilities between Israel and Tehran.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned of repercussions, stating, “They will also be slapped for these acts.” While the exact nature of Iran’s response remains uncertain, there is speculation that it may involve proxy attacks, including those by Hezbollah in Lebanon, which has engaged in hostilities with Israel since the Gaza conflict began in October. Following these developments, the IDF has also announced an increase in manpower and the mobilization of reserve soldiers to bolster aerial defenses, reflecting the seriousness with which Israel views the current threat landscape.