An Israeli attack on Iran’s nuclear programme would probably trigger a broader war between the two countries that could last 30 days, according to the Israeli minister who has been readying the nation’s home defence.

Matan Vilnai, who left his post this week to become Israel’s ambassador to China, said the country was preparing for a scenario in which Iran and its allies in the region would fire hundreds of missiles at Israel every day, causing as many as 500 fatalities. “It could be that there will be less fatalities, but it could be there will be more?.?.?.?The assessments are for a war that will last 30 days on a number of fronts.”

His comments follow a surge in speculation about an impending Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, as well as reports in the Israeli media questioning the country’s readiness for war with Iran.