JERUSALEM/WASHINGTON – Israel is reportedly preparing for potential military strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, according to new U.S. intelligence. The moves come as U.S.-Iran negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program show little progress, raising concerns about regional escalation.

• Escalating Tensions: U.S. intelligence indicates Israel is preparing for potential strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, raising fears of a wider Mideast conflict.
• Diplomatic Deadlock: The move comes as U.S.-Iran negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program remain stalled, with Israel potentially acting if a satisfactory deal isn’t reached.
• High Stakes: A strike risks significant regional escalation and could involve the U.S., despite current reluctance to directly assist without Iranian provocation.

Why Israel May Act

Israel views Iran’s nuclear ambitions as an existential threat and has consistently stated its refusal to allow Tehran to develop nuclear weapons. The potential strikes are seen as a preemptive measure to dismantle or severely set back Iran’s nuclear program, which Israel believes is ultimately aimed at weaponization. Justification would center on national security and preventing a nuclear-armed Iran, which Israeli officials have repeatedly deemed unacceptable. Indications of Israeli military preparations, including movement of air munitions and air exercises, have been intercepted by U.S. intelligence. While these could be posturing to pressure Iran, they also suggest a credible threat of imminent action.

The Diplomatic Stalemate

The possibility of Israeli military action is closely linked to the ongoing, yet faltering, diplomatic efforts between the U.S. and Iran. U.S. President Donald Trump has set a deadline for these negotiations, seeking a comprehensive deal that would significantly limit or eliminate Iran’s uranium enrichment capabilities. However, Iran maintains its right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes under the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty and has called U.S. demands “excessive.” If the U.S. and Iran reach a deal that Israel deems insufficient, or if talks collapse entirely, Israel may feel compelled to act independently to protect its security interests.

What’s at Stake

A potential Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear facilities carries immense risks. It could trigger a wider regional conflict, pulling in other actors and destabilizing an already volatile Middle East, particularly in the wake of the ongoing Gaza war. While Iran is considered to be in its weakest military position in decades due to sanctions and recent Israeli strikes on its missile production and air defenses, an attack on its nuclear sites would almost certainly provoke a strong retaliation. Furthermore, U.S. officials suggest that Israel would likely require American assistance, including mid-air refueling and specialized munitions, for an effective strike on deeply buried facilities, yet the U.S. has indicated it is unlikely to assist without a major provocation from Tehran. The situation highlights the delicate balance between diplomacy and potential military action in preventing nuclear proliferation in the region.