Israel’s Channel 12 reported on Thursday that Washington and Jerusalem are weighing a resumption of hostilities against Iran prior to Israel’s October 27 election, a claim that contradicts assertions made by US President Donald Trump.
Earlier in the day, Trump stated via a formal release that the United States would refrain from targeting Iran ahead of the November 3 US midterm congressional elections.
The broadcaster indicated that Israeli Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir engaged with unidentified American officials during these discussions, cautioning that a potential offensive on Tehran might necessitate delaying the Israeli ballot. The report did not clarify whether these exchanges occurred via telephone or in person.
Per the channel, Zamir was updated on American military readiness for a potential escalation of the conflict with Iran within the coming three-week window.
The report noted Zamir’s caution reflected evaluations suggesting Tehran could retaliate against any US offensive by firing missiles at Israel, which might ultimately compel the postponement of the election.
The Israeli military declined to address the reported consultations between Zamir and his American counterparts, the channel stated.
Channel 12 further claimed that the Pentagon directed US Central Command days ago to finalize preparations for a potential renewal of warfare against Iran, though no specific launch date has been established.
Unnamed US officials told the channel that Trump is evaluating the option of restarting attacks before the Israeli election but has yet to reach a definitive conclusion.
One American official indicated that a final determination could be reached within seven to ten days.
