Critical Alert: Iran-Israel Armed Conflict

Domestically, Iran is also likely to intensify coercive tactics, notably the arbitrary detention of foreign nationals on fabricated charges such as espionage or subversion. Meanwhile, Iran's paramilitary forces have reportedly set up checkpoints across multiple provinces, closely monitoring travelers, particularly those carrying foreign passports, raising concerns about further arrests and harassment. 

Both Iran and Israel have increased their attacks in the so-called grey zone, including cyber attacks. On June 17, Iran's Sepah Bank, which maintains close links to Iran's Revolutionary Guards, recorded a cyber attack that affected several of its branches and disrupted bank services throughout the country. Similarly, Israeli authorities reported fraudulent messages assuming the identity of the IDF Home Front Command. Despite the ceasefire, additional cyber attacks are likely in the coming days and weeks, particularly against soft targets, diplomatic missions, Jewish or Israeli-linked sites, and Western interests abroad.  Enhanced vigilance, intelligence coordination, and protective measures are likely to remain in place globally for the foreseeable future.  

The global threat environment remains significantly elevated for Israeli citizens and Jewish communities. Governments in Europe, North America, and elsewhere are likely to raise national threat levels and deploy enhanced protective measures near Jewish institutions in the coming days.  

• Defer all travel to Israel, Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Syria, and Yemen until further notice.  
• If incoming projectiles or rocket fire are reported, or if warning sirens sound in the vicinity, immediately proceed to the nearest bomb shelter and remain there until authorities indicate it is safe to leave. If no shelter is available, stay indoors, away from windows and exterior walls. If feasible, relocate to a ground floor or basement level for added protection. Minimize nonessential movement.
• Maintain regular contact with diplomatic missions for updates and assistance. Avoid all demonstrations, political gatherings, areas with a heavy security presence, and all military installations or government facilities, as these may become flashpoints for violence or targeted attacks.
• Before traveling, reconfirm the status of all flights and the operational status of major roads and border crossings. If air travel remains operational, arrive at airports well in advance to allow for extended security screening and potential delays.
• Continue to monitor reliable local media sources and official government channels for real-time updates. Follow all instructions issued by local authorities and security personnel without delay. 

If your organization has people or assets in the Middle East, our experts can help to stay ahead of the situation and ensure operational resilience.  

The following alert was taken from Crisis24 Horizon.