ISRAEL SEEKS US APPROVAL TO STRIKE IRANIAN ENERGY FACILITIES AS TRUMP WEIGHS ENDING THE WAR
Israel has formally asked Washington for permission to hit Iranian energy sites that have stayed off limits so far, Israeli public broadcaster Kan reported. The request comes as US and Israeli planners already have detailed options ready for a short, intense round of strikes targeting energy infrastructure, nuclear facilities, and missile and drone production once the American midterms pass.
President Trump has repeatedly said the conflict will end very soon and that previous operations obliterated Iran’s nuclear enrichment capacity. He has also kept the door open for more action, stating the United States may deliver another round of strikes and that America and Israel must finish the job they started. At the same time, he has delayed major operations before the elections, citing concerns over gas prices and the timing of Israel’s own vote.
Prime Minister Netanyahu has pressed harder, describing Iran as an immediate existential threat and stating that Israel faces real and tangible danger. He has directed Israeli intelligence and the military to work toward removing the regime in Tehran and warned that a wounded Iran can still deliver a final sting. Israeli sources say one more heavy blow to the energy sector could push the Iranian economy over the edge and force concessions.
The United States has blocked some earlier Israeli requests for broader targets, including energy infrastructure, while maintaining a naval blockade that already starves Iran of oil revenue.
Officials note that striking refineries and power plants would raise domestic political costs in America even as it weakens Tehran’s ability to fund proxies and rebuild its arsenal. Trump has said he is open to hearing from Iran on sanctions relief but has made clear the country will never be allowed a nuclear weapon.
The request now sits with the White House. Approving strikes on previously untouched energy facilities would expand the target set and raise the immediate cost for Iran. Holding back risks letting the regime recover revenue and prepare its next move while talks drag on.
The choice will determine whether the campaign ends on American and Israeli terms or continues under the shadow of Iranian threats.