Jerusalem, Israel - January 16, 2026 Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin delivered a public statement ahead of the Sabbath, addressing recent regional developments and the military’s state of readiness. He said the IDF has been closely monitoring the situation in recent weeks, with intensified assessments in recent days led by the Chief of Staff and senior commanders. According to Defrin, the IDF has reinforced its capabilities and raised readiness levels along all borders. He emphasized that the military remains fully prepared for a wide range of scenarios, both defensive and offensive, and stressed that Israel’s citizens should know the IDF is continuously prepared. Defrin acknowledged public uncertainty amid increased media and public discussion about regional tensions, describing such concern as understandable. He urged the public to rely only on official IDF statements and channels, avoid spreading unverified information, and act responsibly. He reiterated that there is no change to Home Front Command guidelines and said the public would be informed clearly and promptly should any changes be required. The spokesperson concluded by stating that the IDF will continue to act with responsibility and sound judgment and will update the public when necessary.