Israel has announced plans to intensify its military strikes against Iran, even as US President Donald Trump signals consideration of winding down American operations in the escalating Middle East conflict. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed a new wave of attacks targeting Iranian infrastructure in Tehran, hours after Trump urged restraint following strikes on Iran's natural gas facilities.
Trump outlined five key objectives on Truth Social—destroying Iran's military capability, defense industry, navy and air force, preventing nuclear weapons, and protecting allies like Israel and Saudi Arabia—while noting the US is "very close" to meeting them. Despite additional troop deployments to West Asia, he criticized NATO allies as lacking courage on Strait of Hormuz security and hinted at de-escalation amid eased Iranian oil sanctions to stabilize global supplies.
Israel's escalation persists despite US advisories, with IDF spokespersons vowing to hit "every installation" linked to Tehran's regime. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned of Israeli aircraft over Tehran soon, citing Iran's enriched uranium stockpile sufficient for nine nuclear bombs within months. Iranian retaliation has included missile barrages on Israeli cities and energy sites in Gulf allies, killing dozens and spiking oil prices.
Also Read: US Embassy Urges Citizens to Leave Israel Now as Iran Tensions Escalate Dangerously
The conflict, ignited February 28 after failed nuclear talks, has claimed thousands of lives across borders, disrupting 20% of global oil flows through Hormuz. Iran warns of total destruction of enemy energy grids if provoked further, while new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei pledges to block the strait. US Marines bolster regional presence as Trump weighs full ceasefire denial.
Divergent US-Israeli timelines strain the alliance, with Jerusalem prioritizing regime threats over Washington's economic concerns. Tehran leverages attacks to pressure for strikes' end, targeting US bases and shipping. As Israel ramps operations independently, Trump's "winding down" rhetoric tests bilateral ties forged in prior campaigns. Observers watch for diplomatic off-ramps amid vows of prolonged fighting, fearing broader war drawing in Gulf states and superpowers.
Also Read: Rajasthan Muslims Hold Black-Armband Protests Against Iran Attacks During Eid