US Plans to Intensify Strikes on Iran as Tensions Near Israel, Trump Warns Gulf States

For eight consecutive nights, intense exchanges of fire have continued between the United States and Iran, with signs that a major escalation is imminent. While Iran has been attacking its neighbors in the Gulf region, Israel has so far remained outside the direct conflict. However, recent reports indicate that the escalation may soon approach Israeli territory.

On Sunday evening, two security officials, one Israeli and one American, revealed that the US informed Israel of its intention to intensify strikes against Iran in the coming days. Despite this, the US currently prefers to keep Israel out of the escalating conflict. Strategic discussions between the two countries also raised concerns that Iran might "break the rules" and launch attacks toward Israel, which would prompt a strong Israeli military response against Iran. The US is keen to avoid Israeli involvement in the Gulf tensions.

Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump sent a warning to Gulf states, stating, "If no agreements are reached with Iran this week, prepare for significant escalation." Israeli and regional sources believe Trump’s threats aim to pressure Iran into a ceasefire and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, though they do not rule out the possibility of further escalation.

Earlier on Sunday, Israeli Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Eyal Zamir conducted a situation assessment in the West Bank, emphasizing close monitoring of developments in Iran and maintaining high alertness. He affirmed Israel’s readiness to immediately return to combat and respond forcefully to any attacks.

The situation remains volatile: earlier, Iran fired four missiles toward Jordan, with US defense systems intercepting three. Explosions were reported in Abadan, southwestern Iran. The US Central Command (CENTCOM) announced that an American soldier was killed in northern Iraq due to a controlled detonation of unexploded Iranian drone munitions, with another soldier wounded. Additionally, unidentified findings are under investigation following the deaths of two US soldiers in Jordan. The Israel Defense Forces reported intercepting several missiles to prevent debris from falling in Israeli territory near Eilat, with no damage or casualties and no change in civil defense instructions.