U.S., Israel preparing to bombard energy-related targets in Iran, sources say
U.S. and Israel Prepare Major Bombardment of Iranian Energy Targets
Bizeconanalysis.com – Washington — The United States and Israel are preparing what could become one of the most significant military operations in recent history, with both nations planning coordinated strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure. According to multiple sources speaking with CBS News, the U.S. and Israel are preparing to bombard critical energy-related targets across Iran, with potential military action expected to begin as early as this weekend.
While officials have not yet confirmed the exact timing, there has been active discussion about concluding operations before financial markets open on Monday. This timeline consideration stems from concerns about how the bombardment campaign might impact both the U.S. and global economic stability. However, sources indicate that a definitive end point has not yet been established for the operation.
Coordination and Strategic Planning
Israel has been formally notified of the potential strikes and is actively coordinating with American military planners. The president has not yet issued final authorization orders for the bombardment, according to multiple U.S. sources familiar with the situation. This joint operation would represent Israel's return to active combat operations following a period of relative calm during the U.S.-brokered truce agreement.
Iran has not launched attacks against Israel since the memorandum of understanding collapsed, and the United States restarted combat operations in early July. Despite this, an Israeli official told CBS News that "Israel is unaware of a decision to restart full military operations, nor has been requested of Israel to join any military actions against Iran."
Cabinet Discussions and Political Considerations
The military strike plan was prominently discussed during President Trump's cabinet meeting at Camp David on Friday, according to sources who were briefed afterward. Notably, some White House aides with political responsibilities expressed strong opposition to the proposed action. During the meeting, reporters present heard Mr. Trump state: "We'll be hitting them very hard. At some point, they're going to say, 'We just can't take it anymore.'" When asked about the possibility of reviving diplomatic efforts, the president added: "I think we just want to win."
Energy infrastructure, including power plants and refineries, would likely serve as primary targets for the bombardment campaign. Two sources confirmed this assessment to CBS News. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt issued a statement reinforcing the administration's position: "As President Trump said at his cabinet meeting today, the United States will win, and Iran will not have a nuclear weapon under his watch."
"The Department of War is locked and loaded, ready to execute the President's directives at a moment's notice," said Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell in an official statement. The Pentagon declined to comment on specific targets before the president makes a final decision.
Regional Security Alerts and Strategic Options
On Saturday, several U.S. embassies across the Middle East issued security alerts citing "heightened tensions." These embassies, including those in Amman, Jordan; Jerusalem; and Baghdad, advised Americans in the region to exercise caution and heightened vigilance. The alerts specifically mentioned potential flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and possible travel disruptions as consequences of the escalating situation.
A former U.S. military official explained to CBS that targeting energy infrastructure would primarily impact Iran's military capability to provide essential services and maintain effective governance. During an earlier meeting between Mr. Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Netanyahu presented three strategic options for the ongoing conflict. These included military strikes focused on land resupply routes, according to a senior Israeli official. Prime Minister Netanyahu also held discussions with Defense Secretary Hegseth regarding the potential operations.
The United States has already conducted strikes on bridges in this conflict that serve dual purposes—utilized by both military forces and civilian populations. High-level U.S. discussions on Friday centered on the possibility of cutting electricity across Tehran, though no final decision had been reached as of Friday afternoon. Last week, Mr. Trump announced on Truth Social that he would bomb and destroy an Iranian bridge or power plant for every attack on a ship in the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the main targets for the U.S. and Israel bombardment? A: The primary targets include energy infrastructure such as power plants and refineries in Iran, with potential strikes on bridges and other dual-use facilities.
Q: Has President Trump given final approval for the strikes? A: According to sources, the president has not yet issued the final authorization orders, though the plan was discussed extensively at Camp David.
Q: How might the bombardment affect global markets? A: Officials are considering timing the operation to conclude before Monday's market opening to minimize economic disruption to both U.S. and global financial systems.
Q: What security measures are in place for Americans in the Middle East? A: U.S. embassies in Jordan, Israel, and Iraq have issued alerts advising Americans to exercise heightened vigilance and prepare for potential travel disruptions.