Israel is tracking Iran's efforts to rebuild its military capabilities, warning that renewed threats could force action despite upcoming elections.
Israel is monitoring Iranian efforts to rebuild its military capabilities following the damage Tehran sustained during Operation Roaring Lion, with security officials warning that developments could force Israel to defend itself despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's desire to avoid escalation ahead of the elections, according to assessments discussed in recent Israeli security consultations.
Intelligence indicating that Iran is working to restore its military capabilities following the blows it sustained during Operation Roaring Lion was examined during security discussions held in Israel.
In recent weeks, Iranian measures indicating renewed military preparations have been identified. Israeli officials believe that the completion of these preparations could significantly strengthen Iran's combat capabilities. Previous assessments have also highlighted the speed of Iran's military recovery following the conflict.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, "Netanyahu wants the elections to take place as planned and on schedule, something that would not be possible if Israel were in a state of emergency involving fighting against Iran."
Nevertheless, the officials stressed that the situation is changing in accordance with the pace of Iran's military preparations and activities, and that Israel's security assessments are being updated as developments unfold.
Israel does not rule out renewed military action against Iran
"It is impossible to completely rule out a situation in which developments on the ground would require Israel to defend itself," the officials said, despite the desire to avoid escalation ahead of the elections.
US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth made a brief, unannounced visit to Israel on Monday, during which he met with Netanyahu at the Israeli Air Force's Ovda Airbase in southern Israel. The meeting between Netanyahu and Hegseth took place amid heightened security discussions.
The meeting was also attended by Defense Minister Israel Katz, National Security Council head Shmuel Ben Ezra, and other senior officials.
Possible renewal of strikes against Iran
The previously unannounced visit took place amid ongoing Israeli-US security consultations concerning Iran and the possibility of renewed military operations against Iranian nuclear and military facilities.
Neither the Prime Minister's Office nor the Pentagon has issued an official statement regarding the content of the discussions. Hegseth's arrival in Israel was not preceded by a public announcement or the release of an official agenda.
The meeting was held at a military base in southern Israel rather than at the Prime Minister's Office in Jerusalem or the Kirya military headquarters in Tel Aviv, against the backdrop of American military activity at the base and ongoing discussions between the two countries concerning Iran.