Israel, despite many years of preparation for a strike on Iran's nuclear facilities, will most likely not target them during its anticipated retaliatory attack. As The New York Times writes with reference to sources, Israeli military and political leaders, after long discussions, decided to focus on military bases, intelligence facilities and management of Iran.
The decision not to attack Iran's nuclear facilities now, according to the NYT, was made amid objections from the US, which believes such actions could trigger a major escalation. However, nuclear targets remain on the list of possible attacks if Iran continues its aggression against Israel.
Israel has been preparing for a possible attack on Iran's nuclear facilities for more than two decades, and two years ago even openly simulated such an operation. However, experts say the country lacks the equipment to strike underground Iranian bases without using the 30,000-pound American "bunker bombs" that can penetrate deeply fortified facilities.
Even so, there is a growing call in Israeli society to seize the moment and strike a blow that will seriously set back Iran's military and nuclear capabilities for years to come. This call is supported by some influential forces in the US, seeing in it an opportunity to neutralize the threat from Iran.
Meanwhile, American intelligence and international experts warn that Iran is already on the verge of creating nuclear weapons. Tehran continues to actively develop its nuclear program, and the question of time is becoming critical for the security of Israel and the region in general.
Israel's plans to attack Iran spark debate about the potential consequences. Although a direct strike on nuclear sites is being postponed, regional tensions remain high and the conflict is unlikely to end without major international intervention or agreement.
