New Delhi: Israel has informed the United States that it is fully prepared to launch a military operation against Iran, according to a report by CBS News citing multiple American officials. The development comes amid escalating tensions over Tehran’s advancing nuclear programme and failed negotiations between the US and Iran.
The United States has begun withdrawing non-essential government personnel from several countries in the Middle East as the situation continues to evolve in an already tense region. The US State Department confirmed the departure of non-emergency staff from its embassy in Iraq, while authorising voluntary exits for American personnel and dependents in Bahrain and Kuwait. The move reflects growing concerns of potential retaliatory attacks by Iran on American sites in the region, particularly in Iraq.
‘It could be a dangerous place’
US President Donald Trump, speaking on Thursday (IST) at the Kennedy Center in Washington, acknowledged the risks: “They are being moved out because it could be a dangerous place. We have given notice to move out, and we’ll see what happens.” He reaffirmed his administration’s hardline stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, saying, “They can’t have a nuclear weapon. Very simple. We’re not going to allow that.”
The warning from Israel comes as both nations remain deeply sceptical of Iran’s intentions. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has long opposed any nuclear deal with Tehran, pointing to what he calls decades of deception and aggression since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
The CBS report further notes that US President Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, is still expected to hold a sixth round of nuclear talks with Iran in the coming days. However, the outcome remains uncertain. “I’m much less confident of a deal now than I was two months ago,” Trump admitted.
Iran’s issues fresh threat
Iran, for its part, has issued fresh threats to target US military bases in the region if conflict erupts. The Islamic Republic continues to enrich uranium close to weapons-grade levels — a major sticking point in the negotiations.
Meanwhile, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has also authorised the voluntary departure of military dependents from various Middle Eastern bases, especially in Bahrain. Pentagon officials confirmed that the security posture in the region is being continuously reassessed.
