US Envoy Suggests Iran Attack Possible This Weekend

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack stated on Friday that an attack on Iran could occur this weekend, responding with "absolutely" when asked about the possibility. Despite this, Barrack emphasized that the United States is prepared for an agreement with Iran, noting that President Trump is open to a deal. "We have been at the negotiating table for months. We want to see a change in policy," Barrack said, clarifying that the U.S. is not seeking a regime change but rather a "rebalancing" to end threats and bring global calm.

Iranian assessments suggest a conflict with Israel and the United States is inevitable, with Iran anticipating Israel would strike first. Tehran is preparing for such an attack to potentially happen in the coming days, even before Tuesday's elections. While Iran acknowledges threats from the U.S. and Israel, they are considering possible responses.

Israeli security officials are reportedly very concerned about the possibility of miscalculation, where Iran might misinterpret Israeli policy, leading to escalation. They stress the danger of politicizing the current sensitive security tensions and the need for significant responsibility from all speakers. The IDF is on high alert ahead of the elections, with the Chief of Staff highlighting the importance of security stability. Currently, there are no Iranian actions that justify an immediate Israeli attack. However, U.S. and Israeli militaries are continuously training and have prepared joint operational plans.

From Israel's perspective, the preferred course of action at this time is the U.S. economic pressure and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Consequently, the Israeli security establishment is being cautious to avoid contributing to escalation, both domestically and internationally.