Israel has reportedly ordered its military to increase preparations for possible strikes against Iran, as Tehran warned that any renewed attack could trigger retaliation against US military bases across West Asia and Europe.

The directive was issued by Israel’s security cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, according to Israeli media reports on Wednesday. Public broadcaster KAN said the instructions could pave the way for military action capable of triggering another war.

The reported preparations came after opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot warned Netanyahu against deploying the military without a direct and immediate threat while efforts to form a new Israeli government continue.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog had invited Eisenkot to try to form a government after Netanyahu’s coalition lost its parliamentary majority in October’s elections. Netanyahu has maintained that the conflict with Iran should continue until the government in Tehran collapses.

Iran, meanwhile, has warned of a broader response if the United States launches another military operation. Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said military bases involved in an attack on Iran would be considered legitimate targets, warning that there would be “no safe distance” or “safe haven.” Iranian officials have also indicated that Tehran could consider pre-emptive action if the current diplomatic deadlock persists.

The developments come amid renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent another escalation. US President Donald Trump has said military action could resume if diplomatic efforts fail, while Secretary of State Marco Rubio has suggested that Washington’s economic pressure campaign has reduced the need for large-scale military operations. Iran has rejected a US proposal to move its stockpile of 60 per cent enriched uranium to a third country, a development that contributed to a rise in global oil prices on Wednesday.

Brent crude settled at $92.76 per barrel, up 1.39 per cent, while US West Texas Intermediate rose 0.57 per cent to $86.53, reflecting renewed concerns over the potential impact of further conflict on oil supplies and shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.