Israel may strike Iran alone, defense officials warn US
Israeli defense officials recently told their American counterparts that Iran’s ballistic missile program poses an existential threat and that Jerusalem is prepared to act unilaterally if necessary.
According to security sources, Israeli intentions to dismantle Iran’s missile capabilities and production infrastructure have been manifested in recent weeks through a series of high-level exchanges. Military officials have outlined operational concepts aimed at degrading the program, including strikes on key manufacturing sites.
“We told the Americans that we would strike alone if Iran crossed the red line we set on ballistic missiles,” the source said, adding that Israel has not yet reached that threshold but is constantly monitoring developments in Iran.
The officials stressed that Israel reserves its freedom of action and will not allow Iran to restore its strategic weapons systems on a scale that would threaten Israel’s existence.
A defense official described the current moment as a “historic opportunity” to deliver a significant blow to Iran’s missile infrastructure and neutralize active threats against Israel and neighboring states.
In recent discussions, Israel also presented plans to target additional facilities linked to the missile program, according to the official.
Several officials have expressed concern that US President Donald Trump could adopt a limited strike model – similar to recent US operations against the Houthis in Yemen – which they fear could leave Iran’s critical capabilities intact.
“The worry is that he might pick a few targets, declare success and let Israel deal with the consequences, just like with the Houthis,” another military official said, adding that partial measures will not eliminate the main threat.
Within the IDF, Brig.-Gen. Omer Tishler, the new air force commander, is expected to accompany Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on his upcoming trip to the United States.
Tishler will represent IDF Chief of Staff Lt.-Gen. Eyal Zamir, as there is currently no defense attaché in Washington following Defense Minister Israel Katz’s decision not to approve the military’s bid for the position.
