The latest
Israel is waiting to see the outcome of U.S.-Iran diplomacy before deciding whether to take part in another military campaign against Tehran, according to Yedioth Ahronoth. Senior Israeli officials say the military is prepared for multiple scenarios but has no intention of launching a new campaign on its own unless circumstances change or Washington requests its participation.
Why is Israel waiting?
• Israeli assessment: According to Yedioth Ahronoth, Israeli security officials believe a diplomatic window remains open until September. If negotiations fail, U.S. military operations against Iran could expand.
• Trump holds the key: A senior Israeli official told the newspaper that Israel’s participation ultimately depends on President Donald Trump. “If Trump wants us to join, we will. If he does not, we will stay out.”
• Military readiness: An Israeli security source said the military has prepared for several contingencies, including a U.S. request for support, a direct Iranian attack, or intelligence indicating an imminent threat requiring a preemptive strike.
• Unfinished objectives: Security officials cited by the report argue that previous operations did not fully eliminate targets linked to Iran’s nuclear program, missile capabilities, and strategic infrastructure. Others insist any new campaign would require a clearly defined strategic objective.
• Regional coalition: The report says Washington currently prefers to keep Israel out of the front line of any regional coalition against Iran, fearing that overt Israeli participation could discourage Arab partners from joining a U.S.-led effort.
Background
The assessments come as tensions between the United States and Iran continue to escalate following attacks that killed U.S. service members and were attributed to Iran. President Donald Trump has warned Tehran that any further attacks on American forces would trigger a much stronger response, while Israeli leaders have repeatedly said they would respond forcefully to any direct attack on Israel.
What to watch
Attention will focus on whether U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts produce an agreement in the coming weeks and on any further attacks targeting American forces or Israel, as either development could shape Washington’s decision on expanding military operations and Israel’s possible involvement.
