IDF prepared for 'prolonged campaign', top general says

IDF prepared for 'prolonged campaign', top general says

In a significant development, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have begun a prolonged campaign against Iran, according to IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir. In a video statement from an airbase, Zamir emphasized the necessity of this campaign to eliminate a growing threat from Iran. The campaign, which began with a series of targeted strikes, is aimed at dismantling Iran's nuclear program, missile infrastructure, and other military capabilities [1].

Zamir underscored that Iran has been building a plan to destroy Israel for years, and that recent advancements have made this threat more immediate. He stated that the IDF's preemptive strikes were launched to prevent Iran from developing operational capabilities that could pose an existential threat to Israel. The campaign has already achieved significant results, including the destruction of key nuclear facilities and a substantial number of missile launchers [2].

The IDF's strategy involves both offensive and defensive operations. While the offensive strikes target Iran's military infrastructure, the defensive measures aim to protect the Israeli home front from retaliatory attacks. Zamir emphasized that the IDF is prepared for a prolonged campaign and that the Israeli public must be ready to face the challenges ahead [1].

The campaign has also seen leadership changes within Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei appointed Brigadier General Mohammad Karami as the new commander of the IRGC-Ground Forces, and Majid Khademi as the new head of the IRGC Intelligence Organization. These appointments suggest a tightening of internal control within the IRGC [2].

The IDF's operations have also extended to cyber warfare, with Israeli cyber units disrupting Iran's banking system and broadcasting messages urging Iranians to rise up against the regime. The campaign has been met with threats from Iran, including warnings of retaliation against US regional bases. However, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that regime change in Iran is not an objective of the campaign, but could potentially be an outcome [2].

The IDF's campaign is part of a broader strategy to weaken Iran's military capabilities and curb its nuclear ambitions. While the immediate impact on the financial markets remains uncertain, the campaign's success could have long-term implications for regional stability and energy security. Investors and financial professionals should closely monitor developments in this ongoing conflict, as they could potentially affect global markets and geopolitical dynamics.

References:
[1] https://www.timesofisrael.com/liveblog_entry/idf-chief-says-israelis-must-prepare-for-prolonged-campaign-against-iran/
[2] https://www.longwarjournal.org/archives/2025/06/israel-targets-nuclear-sites-iran-appoints-new-officials-june-19-updates.php