Israel’s security establishment is closely monitoring the escalating confrontation between the United States and Iran and is preparing for the possibility that mounting military and economic pressure on Tehran could prompt the Iranian regime to widen its response and target Israel.
Israeli security officials assess that Iran has so far avoided certain steps that could dramatically expand the conflict. However, Channel 12 reported that officials are increasingly concerned that a combination of American strikes, damage to Iranian military capabilities, and growing economic pressure could push Tehran toward more extreme measures — including an attempt to strike Israel.
A senior Israeli official told Channel 12 that if Israel is forced to actively join the campaign alongside the United States, Israel could respond by targeting some of Iran’s most strategically important assets. “If Israel is required to act together with the U.S., the counterstrike will be against the Iranians’ national infrastructure and energy infrastructure,” the official said.
The warning comes as Washington has intensified its actions against Iran. Under a new policy approved by President Trump and described as “tanker for tanker,” the U.S. military struck two Iranian government oil tankers on Tuesday as part of a broader wave of attacks against approximately 100 Iranian targets. Those targets included IRGC air-defense and radar systems, maritime facilities and assets, mine-laying capabilities, communications sites, missile launchers, and drones. American officials said the operations are intended to reduce Iran’s ability to threaten vessels and U.S. forces in the Strait of Hormuz while increasing military and economic pressure on the regime.
The IDF and U.S. military are now conducting daily situation assessments and adjusting operational plans as developments unfold and new intelligence is received. President Trump said Wednesday that the United States remains prepared to strike again, telling reporters, “There was a very severe attack last night, and we’re ready to carry out another one whenever we want.” Referring to U.S. intelligence capabilities against Iran, Trump added, “We see everything they do. They can’t go to the bathroom without us seeing it.”
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