CNN: Israel, US coordinate potential strikes on Iran

Israel is coordinating closely with the United States as escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz threaten to undermine the fragile ceasefire with Iran, an Israeli source told CNN.

The coordination includes preparations for a potential new round of strikes on Iran, the source said, with plans focusing on energy infrastructure and the targeted killing of senior Iranian officials. Many of these operational plans, according to the source, were already developed and largely ready for execution shortly before the ceasefire was agreed in early April.

“The intention would be to carry out a short campaign aimed at pressuring Iran into further concessions in negotiations,” the source told CNN.

However, the source emphasised that any decision to resume military action ultimately depends on U.S. President Donald Trump. Trump has expressed frustration over stalled negotiations and the lack of progress in reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while also indicating he does not want to return to full-scale conflict with Iran.

Israeli officials have been skeptical about the prospects of diplomacy from the outset, according to an Israeli official speaking to CNN. That skepticism, combined with renewed Iranian missile activity toward the Gulf earlier this week, has accelerated contingency planning for possible escalation.

Over the past week, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has been holding consultations in restricted security forums, according to an Israeli source familiar with the matter. Netanyahu has also instructed cabinet ministers to avoid public commentary on Iran.

By Sabina Mammadli