Israel Faces Critical Decision on Striking Iran Before Trump’s Inauguration
With only a week before President-elect Donald Trump takes office, speculation is rising about whether Israel might launch a preemptive strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities. In a report for The Media Line, Maayan Hoffman explores the complex decision Israel faces, weighing the risks of acting alone versus waiting for US support under the incoming administration. Retired Maj. Gen. Yaakov Amidror emphasized the dangers of an uncoordinated strike, warning that Iran could retaliate against Israel or its allies. Israel also lacks the necessary bunker-busting munitions, like the US-developed Massive Ordnance Penetrator, to destroy deeply buried sites like Iran’s Fordow facility.
Brig. Gen. (res.) Amir Avivi argued that only evidence of Iran reaching nuclear capability within days would justify an immediate strike. Otherwise, he advocates waiting for Trump, who may support a joint military operation. Middle East analyst Yoni Ben-Menachem suggested that Israel could target Iran’s oil infrastructure if Iranian-backed Houthis continue drone attacks, potentially destabilizing Iran’s regime.
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Yet, uncertainty looms over Trump’s potential response, as he has expressed both aggressive rhetoric and interest in renegotiating a nuclear deal. President Joe Biden, nearing the end of his term, has reportedly been briefed on military options, but experts doubt he would act so close to leaving office.
For a comprehensive analysis of Israel’s strategic dilemma and the geopolitical stakes, read Maayan Hoffman’s full report on The Media Line.
