As Iran continues to enrich more uranium, including a small amount of weapons-grade uranium, Israeli officials have become increasingly alarmed. For years, Israel has regarded a nuclear-armed Iran as an existential threat and has taken action to confront the country and its proxies in Syria, Lebanon and the Palestinian areas. However, recent developments, including a political crisis in Israel triggered by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's attempt to overhaul the judiciary and Iran emerging from diplomatic isolation, have intensified Israel's concerns. Iranian leaders have strengthened their defenses, created a military alliance with Russia, and sought diplomatic ties with Saudi Arabia.
To prepare for a possible conflict, Israel's communities have been constructing shelters for long-term wars, while the military has been developing a new laser system to intercept rockets. Former US Middle East envoy Dennis Ross believes that Israel will not allow itself to lose the option to attack, especially since Iran has been hardening its defenses.
Israeli officials have been vocal about their worries, with ministers warning that Iran poses a threat to the world and Economy Minister Nir Barkat claiming that Iran wants to create a nuclear bomb. While Israel's ability to deliver a decisive blow alone is questionable, they continue to consider a military strike on Iran. Opposition leader Yair Lapid acknowledged that there is no opposition or coalition in Israel when it comes to Iran; everyone is on the same page.
Nonetheless, some experts believe that Netanyahu is diverting attention from his internal difficulties, and the deep divisions within Israeli society could hinder its preparations. If Israel acts, it could spark a regional conflict that hits oil markets and shipping routes in the Gulf and leads to a backlash against Israel from Iranian-backed Hezbollah and Hamas groups. Israel's strengthening military ties with Russia have caused concern, as Iran is seeking Russian help in air defense and missile development.
If a military confrontation with Iran occurs, it may potentially hinder Israel's ultimate goal of establishing diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia. While Israel and Washington consider a Saudi-Israeli agreement to be a key prize in bolstering Israeli security and discouraging Iran, Saudi authorities have stated that a precondition is an independent Palestinian state, which Netanyahu has deemed unlikely to happen anytime soon.
In conclusion, Israel is increasingly focused on the possibility of a military confrontation with Iran, and with Iran's recent actions, it appears that the threat is growing. However, whether Israel acts alone or alongside the U.S. remains to be seen, as a preemptive strike against Iran could have far-reaching consequences.