ISLAMABAD: Israeli military sources have confirmed that the Israeli AirForce and various intelligence units have been elevated to heightenedreadiness status as preparations approach completion in anticipation of apossible United States military strike on Iran. According to prominentmilitary journalist Amos Harel in a recent Haaretz analysis, officials inJerusalem assess that Washington under President Donald Trump is seriouslyconsidering a large-scale assault designed to initiate a chain reactioncapable of destabilizing Iran’s leadership amid ongoing internal unrest.
The development marks a critical escalation in regional tensions, with theIsrael Defense Forces having completed most defensive and preparatorymeasures in recent days. This includes bolstering air defense systems,intelligence monitoring, and coordination with the Home Front Command tomitigate risks of Iranian retaliation, which could involve missile or droneattacks targeting Israeli territory. Uncertainty persists regarding thetiming and certainty of any U.S. action, yet Israeli assessments indicate ahigh level of alertness across key commands.
Harel’s reporting, based on security establishment sources, highlightsIsrael’s belief that Trump favors a massive airstrike operation in hopes oftriggering internal collapse within Iran’s regime. This perspectivecontrasts with earlier signals from Washington suggesting openness todiplomatic channels or delays influenced by doubts over the strike’seffectiveness in supporting Iranian protests or achieving lasting regimechange. Despite these reservations, the possibility remains under activeconsideration.
Israeli preparations stem from intelligence indicating that Iran mightrespond to a U.S. strike by targeting American bases in the Middle East ordrawing Israel into the conflict through direct attacks. Officials expectadvance warning through close U.S. coordination, allowing time fordefensive postures. The air force in particular has raised alert levels,with continuous monitoring of Iranian missile capabilities rebuiltfollowing previous exchanges.
Broader regional dynamics contribute to the heightened caution, includingIran’s domestic turmoil where protests have been suppressed but unrestlingers. Trump has oscillated between threats of decisive action and hintsat renewed talks, recently noting eased executions as a factor in pausingimmediate plans. However, the administration continues exploring militaryoptions, even as allies express concerns over potential wider instability.
From Jerusalem’s viewpoint, a successful U.S.-led operation could representa strategic shift by weakening Iran’s regional influence and nuclearambitions. Yet, skepticism exists regarding the feasibility of regimecollapse through external strikes alone, given Iran’s size and resilience.Israeli leaders emphasize defensive readiness while avoiding unilateralescalation that might rally Iranian hardliners.
The situation underscores longstanding U.S.-Israel alignment on counteringIranian threats, amplified under the current administration. Militarybuildups in the region, including U.S. deployments, serve dual purposes ofdeterrence and assurance to partners like Israel. Gulf states have urgedrestraint to prevent economic disruptions from potential conflict in keywaterways.
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Analysts note that while no strike has been confirmed, the combination ofIsraeli preparations and U.S. deliberations signals a tense phase wheremiscalculation risks broader confrontation. Iran’s leadership has warned ofharsh responses to aggression, particularly if key figures are targeted,raising stakes for all parties involved.
As developments unfold, close intelligence sharing between Washington andJerusalem remains pivotal. The focus stays on monitoring Iranian reactionsand internal stability, with the potential for rapid shifts depending onTehran’s next moves or further U.S. decisions.
Source:https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/israel-security/2026-01-23/ty-article/.premium/trump-left-the-door-open-to-talks-with-iran-but-israel-believes-he-will-still-attack/0000019b-e773-d4bd-a3db-fff30f350000
Harel
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