Israel Stays Ready to Strike Iran as IDF Awaits Washington’s Decision

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Israel’s military remains prepared for a renewed confrontation with Iran, but any major operation now hinges on decisions in Washington, Israeli defense officials say. No significant US military buildup has yet been detected, though officials caution that the situation could change rapidly.

No visible buildup

Israeli defense officials told Ynet that the only visible US activity has been reinforcements in southern Israel and several movements in the Arabian Sea, which they described as routine rather than signs of an imminent campaign. The IDF is continuing normal operations while awaiting diplomatic developments.

Officials said the central question is no longer simply whether fighting will resume, but what any renewed operation would seek to achieve.

Diverging goals

Israel and the United States launched Operation Roaring Lion together, but their objectives may no longer fully align. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has spoken of toppling Iran’s regime, while some US officials favor a short, intense campaign designed to force Tehran back into negotiations from a weaker position.

The Jerusalem Post reported that US officials want any new operation to be brief, potentially lasting only a few days. Two Israeli sources told ABC News that joint strike plans have been prepared, but that the final decision rests solely with President Donald Trump.

Lebanon contingency

The IDF is refining procedures and preparing for the possibility that a major Iran operation could trigger another round of fighting in Lebanon. Israeli forces along the border are preparing winter positions and drawing up plans for possible strikes against Hezbollah in southern Lebanon.

A tense backdrop

On November 2, US forces carried out limited “defensive” strikes in the Strait of Hormuz against Iranians using surface-to-air missiles against US assets, according to a US official. Iran’s chief negotiator, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf, said afterward that it was up to Washington to prevent a renewed war.

President Trump has said the United States has no immediate plan to strike Iran, but that it remains “locked and loaded” if needed. Reports also say US and Israeli militaries have developed plans for a short but intensive operation that could target Iran’s energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone arsenal.

For now, Israel is watching Washington closely: the IDF is ready, but the trigger for the next strike remains in American hands.