• Israel is reportedly considering military action against Iran within days, even without US backing.
  • The move comes as US-Iran nuclear negotiations near a preliminary agreement, which Israel views as insufficient.
  • IAEA declares Iran non-compliant with nuclear obligations for the first time in two decades, escalating tensions.

Rising Tensions Over Nuclear Deal

Israel's government is actively debating a unilateral strike on Iranian nuclear facilities, according to officials familiar with the discussions. The deliberations have intensified as Washington appears close to finalizing a new nuclear agreement with Tehran that would impose limits on uranium enrichment but falls short of Israel's demands for complete dismantlement of Iran's nuclear program.

"We cannot allow Iran to maintain nuclear capabilities that threaten our existence," said one Israeli security official who requested anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter. The official noted that recent IAEA findings about Iran's non-compliance have reinforced Israel's position that diplomatic solutions may be inadequate.

Military and Economic Implications

The potential for military confrontation has already impacted regional stability, with the US evacuating its embassy in Iraq as a precaution. Oil markets remain jittery, with Brent crude futures up 2.3% in early trading amid fears of supply disruptions. Analysts warn that any strike could trigger immediate retaliation through Iran's proxy networks, potentially drawing Hezbollah into direct conflict.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kanaani dismissed the threats as "psychological warfare," insisting Tehran remains committed to its safeguards obligations. However, defense officials confirm Iran's missile forces have been placed on heightened alert.

Diplomatic Clock Ticking

With US-mediated talks entering what participants describe as a "critical phase," Israel faces narrowing options. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government has reportedly warned Washington that it reserves the right to act in self-defense regardless of diplomatic progress. The White House declined to comment on the specific warnings but reiterated its preference for a negotiated solution.

Correction: An earlier version of this article misstated the percentage increase in Brent crude futures. The correct figure is 2.3%, not 3.2%.