Israel favors status quo as tensions in Iran's leadership fuel escalation risk
Israel would prefer to preserve the current balance of pressure — with US naval blockades and economic measures continuing without a return to active fighting — per a senior Israeli security source.
TEL AVIV — As the world marks six months since the start of the war with Iran on Feb. 28, Israeli diplomatic sources told Al-Monitor that increasing dissent among decision-makers in Tehran could result in a third round of fighting with the United States and possibly draw Israel in as well.
The United States and Iran have exchanged blows in recent days after a month-long lull. US forces bombarded Iranian troops on Larak Island, alleging that they were preparing to launch rockets armed with mines into the Strait of Hormuz. Iran retaliated by firing at bases hosting American troops in Jordan and the United Arab Emirates. No American casualties were reported, but Iran said several of its citizens were killed and wounded.
Trump has threatened further strikes against Iran, raising tensions in a conflict that had recently shifted into an economic standoff.
Israel backs status quo
