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Israel Learned of Iran Strike Cancellation Via Social Media, Reports Say

From Hankyoreh · () Korean

Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Israel learned of the U.S. decision to cancel strikes on Iran via social media, reportedly catching its political and military leadership by surprise.
  • Israeli officials expressed frustration and confusion over the lack of direct communication from the U.S. regarding the sudden policy shift.
  • Israel remains concerned about potential Iranian nuclear development and harbors hope that the U.S. might reconsider military action if diplomatic efforts fail.

Israel reportedly learned about the U.S. decision to cancel planned strikes against Iran through social media, a development that has left its political and military leadership feeling blindsided and frustrated. According to Israeli Channel 12, while the Israeli military had heightened its alert status over the weekend in preparation for potential U.S. strikes, the political echelon and military command were only informed of the cancellation after President Donald Trump's announcement on social media.

Israel was completely caught off guard by President Trump's decision.

— Channel 12Reporting on Israel's reaction to the U.S. strike cancellation.

This lack of direct communication has fueled anxiety within Israel, particularly concerning the U.S.'s commitment to confronting Iran's nuclear and missile programs. A senior Israeli official told Channel 12 that the military had to lower and then re-adjust its readiness levels, expressing frustration over the "wasted emergency mobilization." The official added, "We do not understand what President Trump's ultimate goal is." Other security officials and military officers described feeling left in the dark, forgotten, and uncertain about the U.S. strategy.

The situation is particularly sensitive for Israel, which fears the U.S. might withdraw from confronting Iran without ensuring the cessation of its nuclear weapons and missile development. Iran's asymmetric capabilities remain a significant concern, compounded by increased animosity from Iranian hardliners towards Israel following the recent escalation. Israel is reportedly hoping that Trump might reverse his decision and proceed with strikes if diplomatic negotiations falter, especially given Iran's unchanged stance.

We do not understand what President Trump's ultimate goal is.

— Senior Israeli OfficialExpressing confusion and frustration over the U.S. strategy.

Channel 12 reported that Israeli authorities initially tried to determine if Trump's social media post was a "deception tactic," anticipating a potential strike shortly after the announcement. However, within an hour, they understood the U.S. had no immediate plans for an attack and subsequently lowered their military readiness. The incident highlights a perceived disconnect between U.S. and Israeli strategic priorities and communication protocols regarding Iran.

President Trump left us in the dark.

— Senior Security OfficialDescribing the lack of communication from the U.S.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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