The United States and Israel are preparing a potential military strike campaign against energy infrastructure in Iran, with operations possibly commencing as early as this weekend. The plan, which remains under final review, would mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two nations.
U.S. and Israel coordinate potential strikes
Multiple sources report that the U.S. and Israel have discussed and coordinated plans to target Iranian energy infrastructure, including power plants and refineries. The operation, if authorized, would involve a sustained bombing campaign lasting several days, according to reports from CBS News and the Wall Street Journal. While the exact targets and timeline remain undisclosed, discussions have included efforts to conclude operations before financial markets open on Monday to mitigate economic impact.
The proposed strikes follow a U.S.-brokered truce that Israel had paused its military actions under. Iran has not conducted direct attacks on Israel since the collapse of a memorandum of understanding in early July, though tensions remain high. An Israeli official told CBS News that Israel was "unaware of a decision to restart full military operations" or any request to join U.S. military actions against Iran.
White House signals hardline stance
During a cabinet meeting at Camp David on Friday, President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. would "hit [Iran] very hard" to force the country to negotiate. "At some point, they're going to say, 'We just can't take it anymore,'" Trump said. He added, "I think we just want to win," when asked about the possibility of reviving diplomatic talks. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated this position in a statement, asserting that "the United States will win, and Iran will not have a nuclear weapon under [Trump’s] watch."
Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell declined to comment on specific targets before a final presidential decision, stating that the Department of Defense was "locked and loaded, ready to execute the President’s instructions."
Alternative economic measures under consideration
In addition to military options, reports indicate that the U.S. and Israel are exploring a land blockade of Iran to further cripple its economy. This proposal, discussed during a meeting between Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, would involve pressuring Iran’s neighbors to restrict or close border crossings, thereby halting the flow of exports and imports. A senior Israeli official suggested that such a blockade could isolate Iran economically, though military analysts note the logistical challenges of implementing such a measure.
Key border crossings, including those connecting Iran to Turkmenistan, have been identified as potential targets for the blockade. The plan reflects Trump’s belief that current strategies, including efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, have reached their limits. However, the feasibility of the blockade remains uncertain, as it would require cooperation from countries not allied with the U.S. or Israel, including Pakistan and Iraq.
Uncertainty and internal opposition
While the U.S. and Israel have coordinated discussions, the final authorization for strikes has not been issued. Some White House aides reportedly expressed strong opposition to the plan during internal deliberations. An Israeli government spokesperson did not respond to requests for comment.
The evolving nature of the situation leaves multiple outcomes possible, including a delay or cancellation of the proposed strikes. Both nations continue to assess the potential risks and consequences of military action, as well as the broader implications for regional stability and global markets.