Israeli defense officials urge a direct attack on Iran?

Channel 12 reported on December 22 that most senior officials in Israel's defense agency believe that the country should launch an attack inside Iranian territory.

The Times of Israel reported that among the senior officials mentioned above was Mr. David Barnea, Director of the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad. At a recent Israeli cabinet meeting, Mr. Barnea reportedly told officials: "We need to take down Iran. If we only attack the Houthi group in Yemen, it is not certain that we can stop their actions."

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (second from right) and senior defense officials hold a press conference in the Golan Heights on December 17, 2024.

According to Channel 12, citing informed sources, Iranian leaders also believe that Israel could attack the country soon and are holding urgent consultations to decide on "steps" in case of conflict. The reason for Iran's concern about a potential attack from Israel stems from Tel Aviv's destruction of Tehran's air defense system and acceptance of a ceasefire in Lebanon, as well as the victory of US President-elect Donald Trump.

However, Channel 12 also said that some other Israeli officials support avoiding a prolonged confrontation with Iran at this time because it would not serve Tel Aviv's interests.

Did Israel destroy Iran's top secret nuclear weapons research facility?

In another development, speaking to CNN on December 22, White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said Israeli airstrikes on Iranian facilities, including missile and air defense factories, have degraded Tehran's conventional military capabilities.

Given the situation, Mr. Sullivan said it would not be surprising to see voices (in Iran) saying "maybe we need to use nuclear weapons now. Maybe we need to review our nuclear doctrine." The US official added that he had discussed the threat of Iranian nuclear escalation with the Trump team.

The information was released in the context of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning on December 22 that they would act against the Houthi forces and similar groups backed by Iran. The Times of Israel quoted Prime Minister Netanyahu emphasizing that Israel is not alone in the campaign against the Houthis.

"The United States and other countries like us see the Houthis as a threat not only to shipping but to the world order. Just as we act strongly against Iranian-backed groups, we will act against the Houthis with strength, determination and sophistication," Prime Minister Netanyahu said.

The Israeli leader said that while the path against the Houthi group may take time, the result will be as successful as Israel's campaigns against Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/gioi-chuc-quoc-phong-israel-thuc-giuc-mot-cuoc-tan-cong-truc-tiep-vao-iran-185241223114624807.htm