NYP: Israel ready to join future US strikes on Iran, sources say

Israel is prepared to participate in future U.S. military strikes against Iran if Washington requests assistance, according to sources in Jerusalem cited by The New York Post.

The comments came after U.S. President Donald Trump declared that the cease-fire with Tehran was “over” and authorised additional strikes against Iran.

“We’ve proved that we stand with the US,” one Israeli source said. “I’m not sure it will be the interest of them — of the US that Israel will join on this — but, you know, we realize that we need to stretch our muscles.”

“We’re willing to do it again, if needed,” the source added.

Trump approved a second day of strikes against Iran on July 8, following strong criticism of Tehran’s leadership during the annual NATO summit, where he described Iranian officials as “scum,” “evil,” “loco,” and “sick people.”

According to the report, approximately 90 targets were hit during the strikes on July 8, compared with around 80 targets the previous day. The reported targets included missile and drone launch sites, Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command facilities, air defence and radar systems, and logistical infrastructure such as rail networks.

Israel previously joined the United States in launching military operations against Iran on February 28, targeting Iranian leadership structures and strategic facilities. The fighting later expanded to Lebanon, while disagreements reportedly emerged between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu over the timing and terms of ending hostilities.

In June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding calling for an immediate halt to hostilities on all fronts, including Lebanon. Israel has so far not participated in renewed strikes, but Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz said on July 9 that the Israel Defence Forces remained prepared for further action.

“The Israel Defence Force is prepared to strike Iran for the third time – and with greater force than before,” Katz said.

By Sabina Mammadli