The Lead
The United States and Israel are nearing a final decision on a significant new military campaign against the Iranian regime, according to reports from Channel 13 on Saturday night. As military readiness across the region increases and consultations between Washington and Jerusalem intensify, Israeli officials describe the current window as potentially decisive, while emphasizing that the final order rests with President Donald Trump.
The security establishment in Israel has significantly increased its alertness levels tonight following reports that a large-scale American-led offensive against Iran may be imminent. Military correspondents report that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) air defense array has been placed on high alert, preparing for the possibility of direct Iranian retaliation should the U.S. proceed with strikes on Iranian soil.
Strategic Coordination and Readiness
According to reports from CBS and the Wall Street Journal, the planned campaign is expected to target Iran's critical energy infrastructure, including refineries and power plants, in a "total pressure" posture aimed at forcing the regime's surrender. While no final confirmation of the commencement of strikes has been issued, the U.S. military has reportedly been reinforcing its presence in the Middle East for several weeks. In Israel, the current state of readiness is described as a significant increase in vigilance, with personnel in key units prepared for immediate mobilization.
Regional Implications
Security assessments suggest that any substantial American strike will likely trigger a multi-front response from Tehran and its regional proxies. Reports from the New York Times indicate that Iran has utilized recent periods of relative calm to coordinate more closely with groups such as Hezbollah and militias in Iraq and Yemen. The U.S. Embassy in Israel has already advised its citizens to consider leaving the region in light of the developing situation.
As of late Saturday night, the picture remains one of high tension and strategic anticipation. While Israeli officials indicate that the coming hours are critical, they maintain that President Trump could still adjust the scope or timing of the operation. The IDF continues to monitor developments closely, though no changes to civilian defense guidelines have been issued at this time.
10 developments
- The Zioneer Intelligence Desk
- Former Fatah senior Dahlan: Kushner promised Israel would halt Gaza strikes as of Sunday
- Trump: Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE asked to postpone Iran attack 2-3 days, report says
- Iranian drones reportedly strike Sulaymaniyah in Iraqi Kurdistan; coalition scrambles jets
- Iranian sources report launches toward northern Iraq
