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New intelligence obtained by the United States indicates that Israel is preparing for a possible strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities. This was reported by CNN on Tuesday, 20 May, citing several US officials familiar with the information.
According to CNN, it is not known whether Israeli leaders have made a final decision to launch a strike, and there are disagreements within the US government about the likelihood of such a step. One source familiar with the intelligence noted that the likelihood of an Israeli strike on Iran’s nuclear facility has “increased significantly in recent months,” especially if the United States concludes a deal with Iran that does not include the complete removal of uranium reserves from the country.
The administration of President Donald Trump is in talks with Iran aimed at reaching a diplomatic agreement on Iran’s nuclear programme. However, according to CNN sources, the intelligence is based on public and private statements by senior Israeli officials, intercepted Israeli communications, and observations of military movements that may indicate preparations for an imminent strike. In particular, the United States has observed the movement of aircraft munitions and the completion of Israeli air exercises.
Reuters could not immediately confirm this information. The US National Security Council, the Israeli embassy in Washington and the Israeli prime minister’s office did not respond to requests for comment.
On the same day, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called the US demands to stop Tehran’s uranium enrichment “excessive and outrageous”, expressing doubts about the success of negotiations on a new nuclear deal, Iranian state media reported.
This situation creates additional tension in the region, where Israel views Iran’s nuclear programme as a serious threat to its security. At the same time, the Trump administration is trying to avoid an escalation that could lead to a broader regional war, especially as it negotiates with Iran.
Source: Reuters
