Israel Prepares for US-Iran Talks Collapse: 'Act as If Strike Is Imminent'

Israeli officials are actively preparing for the near-certain collapse of nuclear talks between the United States and Iran in Geneva, treating the situation as if military action is already imminent while awaiting a final decision from President Donald Trump. Senior sources in Jerusalem described the current phase as critical, with the understanding that diplomacy has reached its limit.

According to assessments shared Tuesday evening, Trump has become convinced of the necessity for military strikes but must first fully exhaust negotiations to demonstrate he gave Iran a genuine opportunity for a peaceful resolution. This approach provides legitimacy for any subsequent attack. Israeli leaders believe the president and his inner circle favor decisive action, yet procedural steps remain essential.

The timeframe for continued talks has shortened dramatically, driven by both political and operational realities. Discussions in high-level, restricted security forums concluded that Israel must now prepare in practice as though an agreement has already failed. This means maintaining full readiness for immediate response to any Iranian surprise attack while positioning forces to operate alongside the United States once Trump authorizes action.

On the ground, American military assets continue flowing into the Middle East at an accelerated pace. Israeli estimates, based on US briefings, indicate that force buildup will be complete within about a week. Recent days saw additional fighter jets and transport aircraft arrive, delivering the final batteries of air defense systems, including deployments to previously unused locations. The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford is expected to join the region in less than a week, significantly bolstering naval presence.

The operational sequence involves completing force deployments, finalizing detailed strike plans, and setting timing based on precise intelligence. The United States deliberately maintains strategic ambiguity to preserve the element of surprise should it decide to act. Meanwhile, Iranian forces remain on high alert, conducting military exercises across the area in response to the mounting tension.

These developments reflect a shared assessment that Iran's refusal to meet Trump's core demands, particularly full dismantlement of nuclear capabilities and ballistic missile programs, leaves little room for further progress. Israel's preparations underscore confidence in close coordination with Washington and readiness to join any approved military campaign if diplomacy definitively ends.