Israel is seeking approval from US President Donald Trump to launch strikes on Iran amid the current escalation between Washington and Tehran.
Israel’s public broadcaster Kan 11 reported on Thursday evening that the current confrontation remains “limited to the United States and Iran only, without any Israeli involvement”.
The report said Israel expects the exchange of fire between Iran and the United States to continue over the coming days.
Meanwhile, the New York Post reported on Thursday evening, citing Israeli sources, that Israel is prepared to join any future US attacks on Iran “should Washington seek help.”
One source told the newspaper: “We’ve proven that we stand with the United States. I’m not sure it will be the interest of them — of the US that Israel will join on this — but, we realize that we need to stretch our muscles.” “We’re willing to do it again, if needed,” the source added.
The source noted that Israel is “not eager to go back to the day when people have to go to shelters,” but said: “At the same time, we don’t want to ignore what’s happening in Iran. So, if that will be the price we’ll have to pay, we will deal with that situation.”
CNN reported on Thursday evening, citing sources in the Middle East, that Qatar and Pakistan are working to bring the United States and Iran back to the negotiating table.
Israel’s Channel 12 also reported that Turkey is involved in mediation efforts aimed at reducing tensions.
According to Haaretz, Israel is finding it difficult to estimate how long the current confrontation between the United States and Iran will last, with assessments ranging from several days to several weeks.
The newspaper said Israeli leaders believe Washington does not want Israel to take part in the current exchange of fire.
Israeli sources also believe Iran is unlikely to launch attacks on Israel at this stage. However, they said the Israeli military is preparing for a scenario in which the confrontation expands to include Israel.
The office of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he held another phone call with President Trump on Thursday evening as part of their ongoing consultations. It said the two leaders agreed to continue coordination between their countries across various fronts.
