The Washington Post reported on Monday, citing informed officials, that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu informed the U.S. that Israel is ready to strike Iranian military targets, excluding nuclear or oil sites. According to the report, the strike could occur before the U.S. elections on November 5.
NBC News added that the U.S. believes Israel will limit its retaliation to military and energy infrastructure targets, following a recent Iranian missile attack on Israeli bases. While tensions remain high in the region, Hezbollah and Hamas are engaged in ongoing confrontations with Israel in Lebanon and Gaza, respectively.
Israeli officials have warned of a strong and surprising response to the October 1 missile attack, which Iran launched in retaliation for Israeli military operations and the killing of key Hezbollah and Hamas leaders. Despite concerns over Israel’s planned response, discussions between U.S. President Joe Biden and Netanyahu emphasized the need for proportionality, with the aim of avoiding a broader regional conflict.
Israeli media has hinted at potential strikes on Iranian oil and energy sites, as well as the possibility of targeting the Iranian presidential complex and the headquarters of the Revolutionary Guard in Tehran. In response, Tehran has threatened a stronger retaliation should Israel strike.
