US Weighs Major Military Action Against Iran Amid Regional Concerns

The United States views the next two years as critical for addressing the Iranian threat and is considering large-scale military operations, according to Israel Hayom. Washington and Jerusalem are reportedly exploring two main courses of action: new military strikes and the potential overthrow of the Iranian regime. The US administration is reportedly not delaying these decisions due to Israel's post-election government formation, seeing the upcoming period as crucial for altering the Middle East landscape.

US officials consider the remainder of Donald Trump's presidency a limited strategic window to significantly weaken Iran. A senior government official warned that after Trump's term, Israel's ability to resolve key security issues, including the Iranian threat, the Gaza Strip, Lebanon, Judea and Samaria, and future US military aid, could diminish. Some in Congress are already advocating for a review of support for Israel, adding to future risks.

The primary objectives for the next two years include neutralizing Iran's nuclear and missile threats and weakening Tehran-backed armed groups. Concurrently, Washington aims to advance regional agreements, such as normalizing relations between Israel and Arab states, particularly Saudi Arabia. However, the success of these plans is linked to Israel's political stability, with the US favoring a government capable of making strategic decisions.

Trump may leverage his influence to encourage a broad Israeli coalition, with the US administration monitoring potential political arrangements and considering the positions of Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition leaders. Iran, which has been rebuilding its military capabilities since a May ceasefire, is a central focus. Tehran has reportedly been restoring missile infrastructure, fortifying underground sites, and advancing its nuclear program.

US military planning includes two scenarios: targeted strikes to destroy Iran's rebuilt military assets and prevent it from acquiring nuclear weapons, or a larger operation aimed at regime change. Preparations for potential military action have intensified, with reports of US tanker aircraft movements, deployment of missile defense systems, and regional warnings. Some in Trump's circle suggest new strikes could occur after the US midterm elections, a shift from an earlier emphasis on economic pressure.

Despite the urgency, US Central Command has prepared a plan for a preemptive strike involving Israel and regional coordination, independent of Israel's coalition negotiations. Military, intelligence, and political cooperation between the US and Israel will continue regardless of the incoming government. Key US policy goals remain neutralizing Iran's nuclear program and eliminating its threat to the Strait of Hormuz and neighboring countries. Decisions will be based on operational readiness, intelligence, and allied strategic interests.

Meanwhile, Israel's domestic political situation remains uncertain, with no clear majority for either bloc following the elections. A national unity government is being considered, potentially including Netanyahu's Likud and Gadi Eisenkot's Yashar party, to unite significant political forces for security decisions. However, opposition parties' long-standing refusal to cooperate with Netanyahu remains a major obstacle, though some Israeli circles are calling for compromise, citing the 1984 national unity government of Shimon Peres and Yitzhak Shamir as a precedent. The upcoming US midterm elections could also impact Trump's foreign policy initiatives and support for Israel.