Israeli media confirmed that Hezbollah’s threats and the prolonged anticipation of an Iranian response are pushing settlers to the brink, stating, “We cannot tolerate uncertainty. The anxiety of knowing we will be hit with an electric shock is easier to bear than not knowing when it will come.”

The Yedioth Ahronoth newspaper reported that assessments suggest Hezbollah will indeed strike and is merely waiting for the opportune moment.

The newspaper also highlighted that in addition to concerns over the fate of Israelis in Gaza and the settlers’ wish to return to the settlements they were forced to abandon, "Israel" is grappling with an increasingly surreal situation as it anxiously awaits a response.

The report emphasized that the only thing worse than a disaster is the dread of its arrival—the uncertainty surrounding when, how, and with what intensity it will occur. It noted, “The anxiety is fueled by the prolonged wait in a state of uncertainty.”

The outlet concluded by emphasizing that since October 7, 2023, "Israel" has been trapped in a chaotic reality beyond control, adding, "We must also examine what this unbearable situation has done to our collective psyche."

The report further confirmed that senior security officials during last Thursday's political-security cabinet meeting, warned that Iran or Hezbollah’s retaliation may not be limited to missile and drone strikes. It could also involve targeted assassinations of ministers, Knesset members, senior military officers, and former officials from the Mossad and Shin Bet.

In response, the Israeli General Security Service (Shabak) has raised its alert level and issued strict directives to all relevant bodies to “heighten vigilance” concerning those under threat.

The assessment suggests that targeting an Israeli official would be viewed as a significant achievement.

Read next: Hezbollah's increasing threat to Israeli security