Possible US Strike On Iran Looms As Crackdown Death Toll Soars

An Israeli security Source tells Belaaz that Israel expects a US attack on Iran will likely begin tonight or over the next 24 hours, as nationwide unrest in the Islamic Republic enters its third week; the largest protest movement in the country’s history and one met with a brutal government crackdown that human rights groups say may have killed over 12,000 civilians. 

European officials likewise told Reuters that intervention by the United States appears imminent, with one saying action “could come in the next 24 hours” as Tehran intensifies its suppression of protests. The scope and timing of possible strikes remain unclear, but there has been widespread speculation among intelligence and diplomatic circles that the Trump administration is prepared to act. 

Inside Iran, security forces have responded to demonstrations, which began in late December and have persisted across all 31 provinces, with lethal force, detaining thousands and reportedly killing many more in some of the harshest measures in modern Iranian history.

Amid these developments, US President Donald Trump has issued increasingly forceful statements. He has publicly backed the protesters and warned Tehran to “show humanity” in response to reports of extensive bloodshed, declaring that “help is on its way” and urging demonstrators to “take over your institutions if you can.” Trump has also suspended diplomatic engagements with Iranian officials and signaled that the United States is considering “strong options,” including potential military or cyber operations; a shift from earlier comments suggesting negotiations might still be possible. 

A traveler with connections to Israeli officials tells Belaaz that he was advised to reschedule his early Thursday flight from Israel to Wednesday night, in anticipation of shifting conditions.

Another unnamed official told Israeli media that Trump has effectively decided to intervene, though details on the strategy remain unsettled.

The New York Times reported that Washington is weighing various courses of action, from targeted cyber strikes to operations against elements of Iran’s internal security apparatus that have been implicated in the violent repression of protesters. US planners are also said to be preparing for the possibility of a “significant response” from Iran should any strikes be carried out.

In response to rising tensions, the US military has begun precautionary movements in the region, including advising some personnel to leave the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, the largest US installation in the Middle East, amid warnings of potential retaliation. Tehran has informed regional governments, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Turkey, that American bases in their territories would be legitimate targets if Washington attacks Iran. 

The Lufthansa Group canceled overnight stays for crew in Israel and all flights during that period, while Austrian Airlines also pulled scheduled service to Tel Aviv, reflecting broader concerns about stability in the region.

In Israel, media figures such as Michael Shemesh of Kan News report that authorities expect a brief warning, possibly just hours, ahead of any American strike.