Israel Prepared for US Strike on Iran That Was Postponed as Trump Seeks More Talks
Israel had anticipated a major US military strike on Iran during the night between Friday and Saturday, following President Donald Trump's statements that he was "considering" such action. As a result, Israel undertook significant preparations for the attack. However, as Friday progressed, Israeli officials realized that Trump was holding back, effectively granting Iran more time. Behind the scenes, Qatar and Oman exerted considerable pressure on Iran to moderate its stance to avoid an almost certain US attack.
An Israeli source commented that Trump does not want to attack but feels compelled to consider it due to limited options. From Israel's perspective, this delay is only temporary relief for Iran and does not change the overall assessment that the understanding between the US and Iran is effectively dead. The chances of a lasting agreement in which Iran submits are deemed negligible. Even if Trump grants Iran another opportunity, Israel believes it will not result in a deal, though Tehran may have bought itself some additional time.
Next week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with Trump in Washington during the memorial service for Senator Lindsey Graham. Notably, for the first time in 13 nights of exchanges, the US did not report any strikes against Iran overnight. Trump addressed the situation early Saturday at a White House press event, emphasizing ongoing negotiations. He stated, "They are talking to us right now, they want to make a deal. I don't think they're ready yet, but I'm willing to listen. They cannot have nuclear weapons. We don't want to see Washington DC, or any of our cities, or Israel, or frankly the Middle East destroyed with nuclear weapons."
According to a New York Times report, Trump convened a meeting with senior advisors and cabinet members to decide whether to escalate attacks. He later told reporters in the Oval Office that he had not made a final decision and preferred the diplomatic alternative, noting Iran was becoming more serious in talks day by day.
