Israel Prepares as US-Iran Conflict Expected to Escalate with New Target Plans

Israeli officials anticipate an escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran in the coming week, according to recent security and political discussions in Jerusalem. The US is reportedly planning a new set of targets that includes power plants and electricity infrastructure, aiming to strike Iran's critical vulnerabilities. A senior Israeli official told Channel 12 News, "We are prepared for any scenario involving repercussions on Israel." Despite this readiness, Israel's security establishment currently assesses that the conflict will remain limited and is unlikely to directly involve Israel at this stage, as Iran understands the consequences of expanding hostilities to Israeli territory.

In parallel diplomatic developments, Qatar has presented a proposal to both the US and Iran aimed at de-escalating tensions and resuming negotiations. However, Western diplomats indicate that the Iranian side, viewing the proposal as biased in their favor, has temporarily ceased attacks on Qatar but no breakthrough in talks appears imminent.

Meanwhile, reports from the Wall Street Journal reveal that US President Donald Trump is inclined to broaden military operations against Iran. Recent briefings from senior administration officials have explored various escalation options, including expanded airstrikes, deploying ground forces to seize Iranian islands near the Strait of Hormuz, and bombing fortified underground tunnel complexes in the Jerusalem area. The White House is currently deliberating these wider military measures as the situation intensifies.