Israel on the Brink: Awaiting US Green Light for Potential Strike on Iran’s Missile Systems
Tel Aviv is reportedly awaiting a signal from the United States before launching a potential strike against Iran’s ballistic missile systems. Security assessments within Israel indicate a growing possibility of a Washington-led attack on Tehran, as tensions continue to escalate.
Escalating Tensions and US Positioning
Israeli television network KAN reported on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, that Israel is preparing for the possibility of receiving a green light from the US to target Iran’s ballistic missile systems. This scenario emerges amidst heightened focus on whether US President Donald Trump will authorize military action against Iran.
Recent assessments by Israeli security agencies, according to the daily Israeli newspaper Haaretz, suggest an increased likelihood of a US strike against Iran following the latest round of negotiations between the two countries in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.
Haaretz reported that, “According to assessments by security agencies and contrary to public statements by Iran at the end of the Geneva negotiations, there remain significant gaps that cannot be bridged by the US, particularly demands that Iran halt its uranium enrichment within its own territory.”
Potential for US Military Intervention
Given the stalled negotiations, Israel anticipates that Trump may opt for military action sooner than previously expected. The possibility of Israeli military involvement in combating Iran is similarly not being ruled out should a US attack occur.
There is reportedly close coordination between the US and Israel in the areas of intelligence, information technology, military communications, and air defense.
The US is demonstrating a visible military buildup in the region. In addition to the presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier and other US warships, the USS Gerald R Ford – the most advanced aircraft carrier in the US arsenal – is expected to arrive in the Middle East as early as the end of the week.
US Air Force assets based in the UK, including refueling aircraft and fighter jets, are also being repositioned closer to the region.
Trump’s Deliberations and Potential Outcomes
Sources indicate that Trump has personally debated both supporting and opposing military action against Iran, seeking input from advisors and allies on the best course of action. Having previously authorized strikes against Iran, Trump has repeatedly threatened further military action if ongoing negotiations fail to yield a replacement for the nuclear agreement he unilaterally withdrew from in 2018.
FAQ: Israel, Iran, and the Potential for Conflict
Q: What is the current status of negotiations between the US and Iran?
A: Negotiations have reached a standstill, with significant gaps remaining regarding Iran’s uranium enrichment program.
Q: What role is Israel playing in the current situation?
A: Israel is closely monitoring the situation and awaiting a potential signal from the US to launch a strike against Iran’s ballistic missile systems.
Q: What military assets has the US deployed to the region?
A: The USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R Ford aircraft carriers, along with US Air Force assets based in the UK, are being positioned closer to the Middle East.
Q: Has the US threatened military action against Iran before?
A: Yes, President Trump has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran if negotiations fail.
Did you know? The USS Gerald R Ford is the most advanced aircraft carrier in the US Navy, boasting cutting-edge technology, and capabilities.
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