Tensions between Israel and Iran have escalated following US involvement in attacks against Iran, with Tel Aviv now seeking to end the conflict soon. According to The Times of Israel, this message has been conveyed to Tehran through mediators.
The Wall Street Journal, citing Israeli and Arab officials, reports that Israel wishes to avoid prolonging its offensive after US strikes damaged Iranian nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow and Isfahan. Israeli sources indicate the country believes it has largely achieved its objectives through these strikes and now seeks to conclude hostilities.
The United States has reportedly asked Arab partners to communicate this position to Iran. However, Tehran appears unwilling to de-escalate, seeking instead to retaliate for the US strikes.
Israeli officials remain hopeful that Iran will cease attacks and engage in diplomatic discussions regarding its nuclear programme. Israel believes its ongoing Operation Rising Lion, designed to neutralise Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile capabilities, could achieve its aims within days.
In a related development, an Israeli official told The Times of Israel on Sunday that Jerusalem would suspend bombing operations if Iran agreed to abandon its nuclear ambitions. "The ball is in Iran's court," the official remarked, adding, "We stand ready to cease operations immediately. Any resulting agreement would represent a satisfactory outcome for Israel."
Media reports outline two possible resolution scenarios: Israel might unilaterally declare mission accomplishment to prompt Iranian ceasefire, or the US could mediate a bilateral cessation of hostilities - though Israel considers the latter option less preferable.
Should Iran continue its assaults, Walla news suggests Israel would intensify strikes specifically targeting the Iranian regime's stability. Monday's attacks on high-profile Tehran locations allegedly demonstrated Israel's capacity for escalation if Iranian aggression persists.
