Israel Poised for Potential Strike on Iran,
Say U.S. and European Officials
Israel is
allegedly getting ready for a potential military operation that would target
Iran's nuclear facilities, according to U.S. and European intelligence sources.
Signals of increased preparation, such as communications intercepts, munitions
deployment, and military drills, have been picked up by the Intelligence
Community, indicating that Israel may take action if diplomatic attempts fail.
Embassy Evacuations Signal Rising
Tensions
The
United States has responded to the danger by offering families stationed in
Bahrain and Kuwait the opportunity to voluntarily leave, as well as by
withdrawing non-essential personnel from its embassy in Iraq. These evacuations
are a result of increased anxiety about possible reprisals if Israel attacks
Iran.
Diplomatic Efforts at Risk
The
U.S. and Iran's recent rounds of nuclear talks, which were held in Oman, are in
danger. According to officials, Israel might view a reversal of a treaty
restricting uranium enrichment as grounds for impending military action.
Senior officials who traveled to Washington for high-level talks said that
despite this increased awareness, Israel has promised the United States that it
will not strike Iran unless diplomacy fails.
Regional Fallout: Oil Market Jitters and
Iran’s Warning
With
Brent crude up more than 1%, news of a possible Israeli strike drove up oil
prices. Investors are worried about potential interruptions to the oil flow in
the Middle East, particularly with regard to the Strait of Hormuz. In between,
Iran has warned that any attack will have serious consequences and could
bolster its nuclear aspirations.
Strategic Calculations Underway
According
to U.S. intelligence, Israeli military preparation may happen as quickly as a
strike within seven hours of final clearance. But such an operation may still
need American logistical support, like as weapons and mid-air refueling, which
would raise concerns about American involvement.
Looking Ahead: Diplomacy vs. Deterrence
Israeli
leaders seem to be striking a careful balance between expressing preparedness
and depending on US diplomacy to restrain action. President Trump stressed his
desire for dialogue while warning that military action might damage the fragile
talks. Amid fears that unilateral action might undermine diplomacy and increase
regional tensions, European and American officials continue to call for restraint.
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