Israel Prepares for Possible Iran Conflict Amid US Threats of Massive Attack

As US President Donald Trump considers a "massive and unprecedented" strike against Iran, Israeli officials are focused on whether Israel will be drawn into the conflict or remain on the sidelines. Trump emphasized the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, stating, "We cannot allow them to have nuclear weapons, and they will not have nuclear weapons." Meanwhile, Israel is on high alert with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convening a security cabinet meeting on Saturday and a full cabinet session planned for Sunday.

Western intelligence suggests Iran might initiate an attack against Israel, aiming to provoke an Israeli response and exploit perceived cracks in Israel-US relations. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz warned that if Iran attacks, Israel will respond with overwhelming force. Israeli military leaders are preparing for all scenarios but currently have not changed public shelter instructions.

Another scenario involves a significant US strike on Iran prompting Tehran to retaliate against Israel, potentially targeting sites like the Fordow nuclear facility. There is also the possibility of a coordinated US-Israeli attack, though the US has not yet requested Israeli involvement. Trump indicated Israel could join US strikes "within two minutes" if asked but stressed the US does not need Israel's participation.

Alternatively, Israel might stay out of the conflict if US strikes continue and Iran limits its retaliation to Gulf states and Jordan. The ongoing tension has already impacted global oil markets, with prices nearing $100 per barrel due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Another potential outcome is that US pressure could push Iran back to negotiations, avoiding further escalation.

Iran reports 55 dead and 629 wounded from US strikes since June 27. Israel awaits Washington's decision on whether and when a broad offensive will commence, with all scenarios, from continued threats to regional escalation involving Israel, still possible.