כיכר השבת

Western Intelligence Assesses Iran May Launch First Strike Against Israel (Walla, Ynet)

Western intelligence agencies, including U.S. and UK assessments, evaluate that Iran may initiate military action against Israel as part of its response to recent escalation, according to Walla reporting Thursday. The assessment indicates Iran fears another Israeli-American military strike and is considering preemptive action to seize the initiative, sources said. Intelligence officials identify two potential Iranian approaches: direct strikes using missiles and drones, or operations through proxy forces including Hezbollah, Houthis, and Iraqi militias. The core Iranian strategic calculation, according to the assessment, is to "break the rules" and prevent Israel from maintaining the advantage of launching first strikes. The evaluation comes as intelligence agencies report continued Iranian weapons smuggling and ongoing preparation of military infrastructure in the region, reflecting Tehran's preparations for potential conflict escalation.