Israel prepares unilateral Iran strikes if US war ends: report
15:09, 09/08/2026, SundayU: Update: 17:39, 09/08/2026, Sunday
AA

File photo
Israeli media reported Saturday that Tel Aviv is maintaining contingency plans for unilateral military action against Iran should the ongoing war between Washington and Tehran conclude, even as US military leadership actively seeks a diplomatic resolution to end the hostilities.
Israeli strike preparations
Israeli military planners are maintaining preparations for potential unilateral strikes against Iran should the current war between Washington and Tehran conclude, according to Israeli Channel 13. Tel Aviv continues to keep the option of launching attacks without US involvement on the table, the broadcaster reported Saturday. The military is continuing these preparations as Washington seeks a diplomatic "exit route" to end the hostilities.
Pentagon concerns
US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman Gen. Dan Caine has reportedly shared concerns with senior officials regarding the trajectory of the conflict, arguing that further escalation could create new risks, according to CNN. Caine, who recently met with CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, warned that military options could lead to additional escalation and that achieving President Donald Trump's objectives through airstrikes alone would prove difficult.
Diplomatic exit sought
The general sought an "exit route" from the conflict during discussions held in recent weeks, cautioning against the limitations of sustained military action, sources told the American network. The meetings underscore growing unease within US defense circles about the sustainability of the campaign. Israeli officials have not publicly commented on the reported strike plans.