Israel Confirms US Prepares for Escalation Against Iran Amid Rising Tensions

Following a week of intense US strikes on Iran, Israeli officials assess that President Donald Trump is moving toward expanding the campaign. Iran has responded by firing at US bases in the Gulf and the Middle East, threatening a "firm response" against any party aiding the US. Meanwhile, dozens of US refueling aircraft are returning to Israel, with around 100 such planes en route, signaling preparations for a potential significant escalation in the region.

Israeli security sources told Channel 13 that there is currently no alert for attacks on Israel, but the situation remains volatile and could change rapidly if Iran feels cornered. Efforts by Qatar to mediate and calm tensions continue, but political analysts believe these will not influence Trump's short-term decisions. A senior IDF official noted that Iran is making efforts to avoid involving Israel in the conflict, but warned that this could change if the US intensifies strikes, including against civilian infrastructure.