So far Israel has refrained from attacking Iranian civilian infrastructure, but this could change.

By Hezy Laing

Tit for tat? If Iran adjusts its missile strategy, Israel may respond in kind. So far Israel has refrained from attacking Iranian civilian infrastructure.

However, should Tehran opt for a war of attrition once Israel exhausts its pre-designated bank of military targets, the Israeli response could escalate dramatically: targeting civilian infrastructure with the potential to paralyze the Iranian economy and daily life.

Israel is expected to complete its planned strikes on key Iranian military targets this week.

However, if Iran continues its missile attacks against the Jewish state, Israeli officials warn that there remain “painful” civilian targets still on the table.

With Iran’s missile launchers and stockpiles reportedly dwindling, military analysts suggest Tehran may shift tactics.

Instead of launching large barrages—such as 20 missiles at once—Iran might begin spreading smaller numbers across the country: two to the north, two to Haifa, four to greater Tel Aviv, two to the south.

This pattern would force Israeli civilians into shelters multiple times a day, severely disrupting daily life.

Such a change in Iran’s approach could trigger a proportional Israeli response.

For instance, Israel might disrupt water access in a single Iranian province or cut fuel availability in another—measures that could ignite widespread unrest and potentially threaten regime stability.

The message from Israeli defense circles is clear: if Iran changes its tactics, so will Israel.