Israel has reportedly cancelled all military leaves as concerns grow that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could be considering another military operation against Iran.
The move comes amid reports that Israel is increasingly prepared to act without US military backing. Israeli Channel 13 reported, cited by News18, that Jerusalem believes Washington is looking for a way out of the conflict, while Israel is considering unilateral action against Tehran.
US seeks way out as Israel weighs action
According to the report, US Gen Dan Caine is “looking for an off ramp” and believes airpower alone would not be enough to defeat Iran.
Israel, meanwhile, reportedly views US diplomacy as a dead end and believes Iran has managed to withstand the military campaign. Reports have also said Netanyahu ordered assassination strikes targeting senior Iranian regime and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) officials.
A fresh Israeli operation could leave Iran as the country’s main target for retaliation in the next phase of the conflict.
Why has Israel cancelled military leaves?
The latest decision has drawn attention because Israel had taken a similar step on February 26, just two days before strikes were carried out against a compound linked to Iran’s Supreme Leader.
The cancellation of leaves is therefore being viewed as a possible indication that the Israeli military is preparing for a major operation or a period of heightened alert.
However, the reports do not establish that a new strike on Iran has been ordered.
Iran warns Israel amid tensions
Iran has warned that any further escalation could trigger attacks on Israeli targets, including the Haifa refinery and Tel Aviv.
Israel is also reportedly facing concerns over its interceptor stocks, which have been described as critically low. Tehran has previously managed to penetrate Israeli air defences during missile attacks.
A fresh Israeli strike could consequently bring another Iranian response and put additional pressure on Israel’s air-defence systems.
Iran sets conditions for Strait of Hormuz deal
The developments come as Iran has presented new demands to the US amid discussions over reopening the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian officials have demanded that Washington “correct its behaviour” and have sought compensation for war-related damage, along with the lifting of sanctions, as conditions for reopening the key oil route.