- Israel prepares for a quick strike on Iranian nuclear sites if US-Iran negotiations collapse.
- The military sees a limited window to act and plans a risky weeklong campaign.
- Regional fears grow over potential fallout and wider conflict from a possible attack.
Israel is getting ready to strike Iran’s nuclear sites quickly if talks between the US and Iran break down. Israeli sources told Axios that the military believes the window for an attack will not stay open for long. They want to act fast before the chance disappears. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, nicknamed “Bibi,” is watching the talks closely. He expects them to fail soon. One source said Netanyahu waits for the talks to collapse. Then, US President Donald Trump might give the green light for an attack. Trump could be disappointed if the talks don’t produce a good deal.
Military Sees Urgency, Plans Weeklong Campaign for Iran Strike
Israeli intelligence once thought an agreement with Iran was close. Now, they expect talks to fail. The military believes time is running out to launch an attack on Iran’s nuclear program. They want to strike before the opportunity vanishes. Sources say Israel plans not just a quick hit but a weeklong military campaign. This operation will carry serious risks for Israeli soldiers. Israel has trained a lot to prepare for this mission. The US military knows and watches Israel’s preparation closely. However, Washington worries Israel might attack without President Trump’s permission first.
Regional Fears Grow Over Possible Nuclear Fallout and War
Neighbors of Iran fear that an Israeli strike could trigger a bigger war in the region. They worry the attack might release dangerous radioactive material. This fallout could spread across many countries nearby. Such a scenario would increase tensions and cause widespread harm. These worries add to the pressure on all sides to avoid military conflict.
Uranium Enrichment Remains Core Disagreement in Talks
The main issue in the US-Iran talks is uranium enrichment. The US demands Iran stop enriching uranium in any new deal. Iran refuses to give up this right. They claim it is part of their peaceful nuclear program. This disagreement makes it hard to reach a deal. Both sides remain far apart on this key point.
US and Iran Hold More Talks With Hopes of Agreement
Since April 12, the US and Iran have met four times to discuss the nuclear program. These talks mark the highest-level contact since President Trump abandoned the 2015 nuclear deal. More negotiations will take place soon in Rome, with Oman mediating. The goal is to limit Iran’s nuclear activities in return for easing some sanctions. Despite hopes, progress remains uncertain.
Chance of Israeli Strike Has Increased in Recent Months
Intelligence sources told CNN that Israel’s chance of striking Iran has gone up significantly. Israel might act if the US agrees to a deal with Iran that does not fully stop uranium enrichment. The US wants a diplomatic solution, but Israel fears such a deal will leave Iran too close to a bomb. Trump has stressed diplomacy but blocked Israeli plans before. Last month, he stopped a planned Israeli strike that would have needed US military help.
US Accuses Iran of Pursuing Nuclear Weapons Despite Denials
The US and its allies accuse Iran of seeking nuclear weapons. Iran denies these accusations and says its program is only for civilian use. Yet, Iran has enriched uranium to 60% purity. This level is far above peaceful needs and raises alarms. Iran also blocks inspectors from accessing some nuclear sites. This behavior deepens suspicion about its true intentions.
Iran’s Hostility Toward Israel Increases Risks of War
Iran openly calls for Israel’s destruction. It supports attacks against Israel through proxies and missiles. Last year, Iran launched two missile attacks on Israel. Israel’s air defenses, with US help, stopped most of these attacks. In response, Israel bombed targets inside Iran twice.
Proxy Attacks Fuel Conflict Around Gaza War
Iran’s regional proxies have fired missiles and drones at Israel since October 2023. These attacks support the Gaza Strip, where Israel fights Hamas. The conflict began after Hamas launched a deadly attack on southern Israel in October, killing 1,200 people. Proxy attacks increased tensions and pushed Israel and Iran into direct conflict briefly.
Direct Clashes Between Israel and Iran So Far Have Not Escalated
Israel and Iran exchanged fire but have not escalated to full war. Both sides seem cautious and have held back from a larger conflict. For now, the situation remains tense but contained. Many worry this calm could break if diplomacy fails or if military action starts.
