U.S. Intelligence Warns Iran May Escalate Attacks, Including Against Israel

The "New York Times" reported today (Shabbat) that U.S. intelligence believes Iran may escalate its attacks in the Middle East, including against Israel. An Israeli official told Ynet, "There is a basis for this. The attacks in Jordan were a signal."

According to the U.S. report, Tehran is considering escalation "to discourage U.S. President Donald Trump, and because of Iran's difficult internal situation." It was also reported that Iran may act to force the United States back to negotiations, understanding that time is currently working against it, since after the midterm elections, it may no longer have significant economic or political leverage over President Trump.

In addition, it was reported that Israel's holiday period could be "a sensitive period, yet one that is convenient for attacks by Israel's enemies." There are also concerns that Hezbollah may escalate its attacks against IDF forces.

The "New York Times" noted that recent U.S. intelligence reports indicate that Iran has grown more confident in its ability to attack targets in the Middle East and now appears determined to continue the confrontation for many months, at least until the U.S. midterm elections in November.

Israel is preparing for every possibility. The IDF remains on high alert, including throughout the Tishrei holidays. As a reminder, Defense Minister Israel Katz warned the day before yesterday that "Any Iranian attack on Israel will free Israel from all existing limitations in acting against Iran. The IDF will strike all of Iran's national military and civilian infrastructure, including its energy infrastructure."