Iran’s military is currently at the “highest level of defensive readiness” and is ready to give a “severe response” to any aggression, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) said.

The IRGC made this statement after the United States issued various threats in support of Iranian protesters.

“(Iran’s) missile stockpile has increased compared to before the 12-day war with Israel,” the state news agency Fars reported, citing IRGC Air Force Commander Sardar Mousavi.

He also said that all damage caused during this period has been repaired and as a result, the Iranian defense forces have maintained maximum readiness.

Meanwhile, Israel has said it is monitoring a possible US military strike (on Iran). Israeli officials and analysts say the country’s armed forces have increased their readiness levels in anticipation of a possible retaliation from Tehran.

Tel Aviv’s assessment is that a US attack on Iran is now considered “more a matter of time than a possibility.” However, no details have yet been released on the scope, nature or precise timing of the attack.

Israeli officials believe that Washington will inform Israel in advance of any attack so that it can make the necessary preparations, especially if Iran attacks Israel.

As a precautionary measure, Israel has already beefed up its military preparedness, especially in the air force, in anticipation of a possible Iranian response to a potential US strike.

Meanwhile, in the wake of the escalation of tensions, direct communication between top US and Iranian officials has been cut off, according to various media reports. In addition, some personnel have been advised to evacuate from a major US air base in the region.

However, there has been no immediate sign of a large-scale troop withdrawal, as was the case before Iran’s missile attack last year.