On Sunday, former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak stated that Israel does not have the capability to wage a full-scale war alone to overthrow the Iranian regime. He emphasized the importance of coordinating with international allies to face the strategic challenges posed by Tehran.
In an article published by Haaretz, Barak noted that the recent military operation had achieved "significant accomplishments" but warned that Israel faces a "long and painful test" in the upcoming phase.
He added, "Developments may accelerate if Iran decides to proceed toward acquiring nuclear weapons, citing claims that Israeli aggression—coming from a country described in international reports as nuclear and not a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty—poses an existential threat, leaving Iran with no option but to pursue nuclear deterrence."
He further stated, "However, the euphoria in the streets, in the media, and in Netanyahu’s declaration of 'removing the Iranian nuclear threat' is premature and far from reality."
The news site Axios reported that Israeli officials had requested the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump in the past 48 hours to join the war against Iran to eliminate its nuclear program.
An Israeli source confirmed that the U.S. is considering the request, with Israel hoping for Trump's approval.
Israeli officials have proposed American involvement in destroying the Fordow facility in discussions with their U.S. counterparts since the start of the Israeli military operation against Iran.
An Israeli official told Axios that the U.S. might join the operation, adding that President Trump, in a recent conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressed his readiness to participate if necessary.