Media: Trump advisers consider Israel-first strike strategy on Iran

Senior advisers to President Donald Trump are engaged in private discussions about whether it would be politically advantageous for Israel to strike Iran before the United States launches its own military assault. Two individuals familiar with the deliberations told Politico that some officials believe an Israeli-initiated attack could provoke Iranian retaliation, potentially against U.S. or allied targets, thereby strengthening domestic support for direct American involvement.

The internal debate reflects a political calculation as much as a strategic one. Polling indicates that while many Americans — particularly Republicans — support regime change in Iran, there is far less appetite for military action that risks U.S. casualties. According to one source cited by Politico, some around the administration believe “the politics are a lot better if the Israelis go first and alone and the Iranians retaliate against us,” creating what they see as a clearer justification for American intervention.

The discussions come as diplomatic prospects appear uncertain. Special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are reportedly heading to Geneva in an effort to negotiate with Iranian officials, but individuals close to the president expressed scepticism that talks will succeed. One person familiar with the conversations characterised the prevailing sentiment bluntly: “We’re going to bomb them.” The White House has declined to confirm any plans, with spokesperson Anna Kelly stating that speculation about the president’s thinking is premature and that only Trump knows what action he may ultimately take.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently met with Trump at the White House, urging decisive measures to curb Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile infrastructure and support for regional proxy groups. Although some advisers prefer Israel to initiate hostilities, sources told Politico that a joint U.S.-Israel operation remains a likely scenario.

Any military action would carry significant risks. U.S. officials are weighing the possibility of Iranian retaliation against American forces and installations across the Middle East and Europe. Unlike Israel, which relies on systems such as the Iron Dome for missile defence, U.S. assets in the region could be more exposed. There are also concerns about depleting American munitions stockpiles, particularly amid broader strategic tensions involving China and Taiwan.

Military options under consideration reportedly range from limited strikes designed to pressure Tehran into concessions, to broader operations targeting nuclear facilities, missile infrastructure and senior leadership figures, including Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Such an operation could last days or weeks, with unpredictable regional consequences. U.S. intelligence officials are said to be monitoring closely for signs of asymmetric retaliation.

Republican lawmakers have indicated they have received classified briefings suggesting Iran is attempting to restart elements of its nuclear program, though Democrats on the relevant committees say they have not yet been fully briefed. Iran has long maintained that its nuclear activities are for peaceful purposes, a claim U.S. officials continue to question.

By Tamilla Hasanova