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Israeli Health Ministry reviews hospital preparations amid possible conflict with Iran

February 20, 2026 at 10:33 am

A picture shows an ambulance outside the emergency entrance to the Sheba Medical Centre in Israel’s Ramat Gan city on July 15, 2023. [Photo by AHMAD GHARABLI/AFP via Getty Images]

An Israeli TV channel reported on Thursday that the Israeli Ministry of Health held an emergency meeting with hospital directors and health insurance funds to discuss preparations for a potential escalation with Iran.

According to i24 News, senior officials from the ministry attended the meeting, where hospital directors were asked to present their readiness for a possible confrontation with Iran.

The discussion focused on hospital preparedness, including protective measures, infrastructure, and medical equipment, in case the routine emergency system needs to shift to a full-scale emergency response.

Guidelines shared during the meeting reportedly included plans to manage large numbers of casualties, operate from protected areas within hospitals, recall medical staff if needed, and reduce non-urgent medical activities.

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The Health Ministry had sent a similar message to hospital directors about a month ago, providing instructions for a rapid transition from routine operations to emergency mode. These measures are typically implemented during periods of heightened security tension.

The report comes amid Israeli preparations for potential escalation with Iran, with estimates suggesting the home front could face missile attacks affecting critical infrastructure such as electricity and communications networks.

Earlier on Thursday, Israel’s official Hebrew-language broadcaster reported that the country is completing preparations in case Iran retaliates if the United States carries out a strike.

The development follows statements from US President Donald Trump, who said, “The next ten days will determine what happens” regarding Iran, signalling a timeline linked to negotiations and the possible shift to a military option.

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