Israel and US prepare potential Iran strike, but key goals unclear

Israel is prepared to strike Iran alongside US forces after the November 3 midterm elections if President Donald Trump requests it, though key operational goals remain undefined, according to The Jerusalem Post. The shift follows failed attempts to secure Iranian concessions through other means, with US Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine now believing additional military pressure is necessary. Over ten US transport aircraft have arrived at Israeli bases, with air defense systems deployed, though disagreements persist between Israel and the US on objectives. Israel's Mossad reportedly pursues regime change under Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, while the IDF focuses on specific threats like nuclear facilities and missile sites. Washington emphasizes a short, time-limited campaign, but Caine remains skeptical a brief operation will achieve Trump's nuclear and Strait of Hormuz goals.