CNN: Israel draws up plans for possible escalation in US-Iran conflict

Israel is preparing operational plans for a possible further escalation in the conflict between the United States and Iran but currently remains on the sidelines and has no imminent plans to join the fighting, three Israeli sources told CNN.

Israel has not directly participated in the latest round of hostilities, which began in early July following Iranian attacks in the Strait of Hormuz, according to the sources. Washington has also not asked Israel to join the campaign, they said.

However, one source said Israel would be prepared to act if US President Donald Trump decided to significantly expand the strikes and asked Israel to participate.

“We will be ready.”

Despite the heightened alert, one source said Israel was satisfied with the current situation, remaining outside the conflict while the United States and Iran continue exchanging attacks and remain far from reaching a nuclear agreement as economic pressure on Tehran continues to grow.

Israel Defence Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir emphasised the military’s readiness on July 19.

“We are prepared for an immediate return to fighting and will act with great force against anyone who harms us,” he said.

By Sabina Mammadli