US Intelligence Indicates Possible Israeli Strike on Iran Nuclear Sites Amid Ongoing Diplomatic Talks

New US intelligence suggests Israel may be preparing to strike Iranian nuclear sites, even as diplomatic efforts with Tehran continue. Here’s what we know so far.

Washington D.C., May 21, 2025 — The United States has gathered fresh intelligence indicating that Israel is seriously preparing for a potential military strike on Iran’s nuclear facilities, even as diplomatic negotiations continue between Washington and Tehran. This revelation, reported by CNN and confirmed by multiple US officials, highlights a growing tension that could significantly impact the fragile balance in the Middle East.

Israeli Preparations Intensify

Although no final decision has been made by Israeli leadership, intelligence assessments suggest that the likelihood of a military operation has increased substantially over recent months. These assessments are based on intercepted Israeli communications and notable military movements, including the repositioning of aerial munitions and the conclusion of a large-scale Israeli air force exercise.

One source familiar with the situation told CNN, “The chance of an Israeli strike on Iranian nuclear infrastructure has gone up significantly,” particularly if the ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Iran fail to achieve a comprehensive agreement to curb Tehran’s uranium enrichment.

Diplomatic vs. Military Strategy

While the Biden administration remains committed to a diplomatic resolution, this potential Israeli move marks a divergence from current US policy. Washington has been working behind the scenes to bring Iran back to the negotiating table following a 60-day ultimatum issued to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in March. That deadline has passed, and five weeks of talks have yielded limited progress.

President Trump, although supportive of diplomacy in the short term, has made it clear that all options remain on the table. A senior Western diplomat revealed that Trump recently indicated he would give the negotiations only a few more weeks before considering military alternatives.

Strategic Pressure or Imminent Action?

US officials have also warned that Israel’s military moves could be aimed at increasing pressure on Iran and the international community rather than indicating an imminent strike. However, the scale and nature of Israel’s actions have triggered heightened concern within US intelligence circles.

Since the outbreak of the Gaza conflict in 2023, Washington has been wary of any escalation that could further destabilize the region. A unilateral strike by Israel on Iran could ignite a wider conflict, drawing in multiple state and non-state actors in the Middle East.

Netanyahu’s Delicate Balancing Act

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is reportedly facing mounting pressure at home to act decisively against Iran’s nuclear ambitions. At the same time, he must carefully manage Israel’s strategic relationship with the United States. Netanyahu has expressed deep skepticism about the ongoing US-Iran negotiations, labeling any potential deal that doesn’t fully dismantle Iran’s nuclear capabilities as “dangerously weak.”

According to CNN sources, Netanyahu is navigating a complex diplomatic landscape where he must weigh national security concerns against the risks of alienating Israel’s most important ally.

As the clock ticks on US-Iran negotiations, and with tensions rising in the region, the coming weeks could prove pivotal. Whether Israel follows through with military action or uses its preparations as leverage remains to be seen. One thing is certain—any misstep could have far-reaching consequences not just for the Middle East, but for global security.