The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has activated a 'shadow command' structure for the first time as a contingency measure to ensure continuity of military leadership in the event that its senior commanders are incapacitated or killed, particularly in a conflict scenario involving Iran. This move follows lessons learned from a recent war with Iran, during which the Iranian military's top leadership was killed. The shadow command consists of senior officers from the regular service and operates independently, including being located in a bunker and disconnected from regular communications to protect against cyberattacks. This secret emergency plan was reportedly on standby during a 12-day conflict and is designed to maintain command capability if the entire military command is targeted and eliminated. The establishment of this alternative command structure reflects heightened concerns within the IDF about the risks of decapitation strikes by Iran following recent escalations between the two countries.