American intelligence sources have reportedly uncovered indications that Israel is actively making preparations for a potential offensive targeting Iranian nuclear sites, CNN reported Tuesday, citing several officials within the U.S. government.
If carried out, such a military operation by Israel would diverge sharply from President Donald Trump’s current emphasis on diplomatic negotiations with Tehran, and could provoke a broader conflict across the Middle East, the officials cautioned.
Though no definitive green light has been given by Israel’s leadership, internal U.S. government assessments remain divided over whether Israel is truly on the brink of launching a strike.
One source familiar with the intelligence shared with CNN noted, “The chance of an Israeli strike on an Iranian nuclear facility has gone up significantly in recent months.” According to the report, the concern is based on statements—both public and classified—made by Israeli officials, as well as intelligence pointing to unusual Israeli military activity, including the repositioning of specialized weapons and the conclusion of a major aerial drill.
Despite these developments, some experts suggest that Israel might be using the buildup to send a message to Iran in hopes of compelling it to curb or dismantle parts of its nuclear program without actual military confrontation.
Israeli officials in Washington declined to comment on the matter, and there has also been no official response from the National Security Council or the Prime Minister’s office.
This intelligence revelation coincides with ongoing, though indirect, U.S.-Iran negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear ambitions. While initial rounds of dialogue were seen as productive, recent developments have cast doubt on further progress, particularly after Iran rebuffed American demands to halt uranium enrichment.
Trump recently made his position on the matter clear, saying, Iran has a choice when it comes to its nuclear program: Blow up its nuclear facilities peacefully or blow them up viciously. Although the president continues to prioritize a diplomatic outcome, he has made it clear that military options remain on the table should negotiations collapse.
{Matzav.com}