Israel Develops Plans for Iran Conflict While Avoiding Direct Entry

Israel is developing operational plans for potential escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran, despite currently remaining on the sidelines. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu convened a security meeting on Monday to evaluate scenarios that could draw Israel into the fighting, such as a formal request from Washington, provocative Iranian actions, or a preemptive strike. Netanyahu is seeking a face-to-face meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump, which may coincide with a trip to the U.S. for the funeral of Senator Lindsey Graham.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich stated at a conference in Yad Binyamin that Israel has no interest in joining the campaign at this stage. He argued that the current situation is favorable and that the most effective way to weaken the Iranian regime is to crush it economically. While Smotrich maintained that Israel will not push itself into the conflict, he affirmed the state remains prepared for any scenario.

Chief of Staff of the Israel Defense Forces Eyal Zamir confirmed the military is ready for an immediate return to fighting. Officials indicated that if Israel does enter the conflict, the military would target high-value energy infrastructure and nuclear sites. These developments follow Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz in early July that triggered the current round of fighting and subsequent U.S. strikes on Iranian bridges.