Israel Prepares for Possible Escalation with Iran Amid US-Iran Tensions

Israel is preparing for a potential escalation in conflict with Iran following renewed US airstrikes overnight, as reported by a security source to Kan News on Thursday. The United States informed Israel in advance of the attacks, and Israeli officials anticipate that President Donald Trump may soon authorize an expansion of strikes against Iran. This follows a meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and the failure to reach a new understanding with Iran. Israeli military and security leadership awaited Netanyahu's return to hold further discussions on the Iranian issue, including preparations for a broader escalation that could involve missile attacks on Israel and Israeli participation in the conflict.

In addition to intense US-Israeli coordination, significant security dialogue has taken place recently between Israel and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Earlier this week, a UAE military transport plane landed at the Nevatim Airbase in Israel, marking unprecedented cooperation during the campaign against Iran.

President Trump has not yet decided on the next steps in the conflict. The US Central Command has proposed a two-week campaign of extensive airstrikes aimed at crippling Iran's ballistic missile capabilities to prevent attacks on regional countries. However, Trump remains cautious due to concerns about widening the conflict and limited interceptor missile stockpiles. He has received mixed messages from regional allies: Saudi Arabia's defense minister, visiting Washington, urged de-escalation, while Netanyahu proposed increasing economic pressure on Iran by targeting its land supply routes. This strategy aims either to force Iran into concessions or to incite internal unrest. The US policy currently responds to Iranian aggression with counterattacks but does not initiate strikes absent provocation.

Israeli officials assess that Iran's Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is hardening his stance in negotiations, diminishing chances for a ceasefire. This hardening is expected to push Trump toward escalating military action. Netanyahu returned to Israel under secrecy due to security concerns and awaits Trump's final decision on significant military operations.

Defense Minister Israel Katz convened a security briefing with top military and intelligence officials, including Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir and heads of various intelligence and operational units. The briefing reviewed intelligence, operational readiness, and contingency plans across multiple theaters. Katz emphasized Israel's determination to protect its citizens and maintain security, instructing continued high readiness. He affirmed that the Israel Defense Forces are prepared for any scenario, both defensive and offensive, and will respond decisively to any threat at any time.