US Intensifies Strikes on Iran Amid Rising Regional Tensions, Israel Prepares for Escalation

A senior Israeli security official revealed on Friday that the United States has escalated the intensity and scope of its military strikes against Iran. The official noted that this escalation is not only evident in US actions but also in their rhetoric, with expectations that the attacks will intensify further. The official attributed the heightened tensions not only to the collapse of negotiations and Iran's duplicity but also to provocative statements by Iranian regime leaders, including threats against the US and references to the killing of Senator Lindsey Graham.

The US strategy, according to the official, does not aim for a single large-scale operation to bring Iran back to effective negotiations but rather a continuous series of military actions. Israel's defense establishment is preparing for potential developments, with the official warning that the situation could escalate rapidly. Concurrently, after five consecutive days of US strikes in Iran, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards announced an attack on the US special forces command center at the al-Tanf base in Syria, reportedly in retaliation for the killing of Iranian soldiers in Iranshahr.

Regarding Iran's current restraint from attacking Israel, the official cautioned that this may not last indefinitely. Iran has been expanding its range of targets, including firing at Jordan, and might claim attacks on Israel as retaliation for US use of Israeli territory as a logistical base. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has instructed preparations for an "all-out" scenario, acknowledging the possibility of a swift and broad conflict with Iran.

The official emphasized Israel’s vigilance over Lebanese activities to prevent a multi-front conflict and stated clearly that any attack on Israel would be met with retaliation. Meanwhile, Israeli security circles expressed disappointment that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu did not travel to the US for a direct meeting with President Donald Trump, which was seen as a missed opportunity to clarify regional realities and reduce uncertainties regarding Iran.

Summary: The US has escalated military strikes against Iran, prompting Iranian retaliation and raising fears of broader regional conflict. Israel is preparing for rapid escalation, with defense officials warning of potential attacks and emphasizing readiness to respond. Disappointment was expressed over the lack of direct Israeli-US leadership talks amid rising tensions.