Chance of Iran war expansion dropped after Trump declared economic warfare, officials say

Security officials suggest that the likelihood of an expanded military confrontation with Iran has diminished following the imposition of a new package of stringent economic sanctions by the United States. These officials interpret President Donald Trump's decision to implement these sanctions as a strategic move to "buy time" until after the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.

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buy time

Despite this perceived reduction in immediate military risk, Israel's defense establishment is maintaining and even increasing its level of preparedness. This includes enhancing readiness across various domains such as intelligence gathering, weapons procurement, interceptor production, target bank development, and the Air Force's offensive and defensive capabilities. The IDF is preparing for the worst-case scenario of renewed strikes against Iran.

Questions remain about the effectiveness of U.S. pressure on countries supporting Iran, whether directly or indirectly through trade and financial channels. Security officials noted that without "extreme decisions and aggressive American enforcement," the desired outcome of deterring Iran might not be achieved. Meanwhile, the defense establishment is concerned about the need for increased government budgets and rapid legislative processes to facilitate the procurement of munitions and advanced weapons systems, including fighter jet squadrons.

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we will use more destructive weapons.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu holds the ultimate responsibility for any decision regarding military action against Iran. Discussions between the IDF, Defense Ministry, and Finance Ministry are ongoing to advance necessary budget and procurement processes. In response to Trump's "D-Day" announcement of sanctions, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps issued a stern warning, stating that any resumption of war would involve the use of "more destructive weapons" and that Iran's missile warheads would be significantly more destructive than in previous conflicts.

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the warheads used on Iranian missiles are far more destructive than those used in previous wars. Iran’s weapons will be completely different in every respect if another war breaks out.