Iran is preparing for war, NYT reports.

Iran has put its armed forces on alert and developed several military scenarios in response to a possible attack on Israel. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has ordered plans to respond to a possible Israeli attack. Iran's response will depend on how severe the strike is. The New York Times reports with reference to Iranian officials.

If possible Israeli strikes cause significant damage and casualties, Iran will respond proportionately. But if the strike is aimed only at military bases and warehouses, Iran may not respond. “The response will be certain if Israel attacks oil and energy infrastructure or kills senior officials,” the officials said.

Iran says it does not want war, but responding to Israeli strikes will pose a challenge for the country's leaders. Iran does not want to appear weak after the killing of Iranian-backed Hamas and Hezbollah leaders. Iran's Foreign Minister said the response to the attack would be proportionate and calculated.

The situation between Iran and Israel is of great importance for the region. The escalation of the conflict could complicate ceasefire efforts in Gaza and Lebanon, and the US could intervene in support of Israel. Iran is trying to strengthen relations with Arab countries, warning them that helping Israel will make them a target. Iran is seeking to avoid a major war with Israel.

Iran has announced that it has secret weapons more powerful than nuclear weapons, ready to use in response to a possible Israeli attack.