New U.S. intelligence suggests that Israel is preparing to attack Iran's nuclear facilities. CNN reported this news on Tuesday (May 20), citing multiple U.S. officials familiar with the intelligence.
Citing the officials, CNN stated it's unclear whether Israeli leaders have made a final decision on the matter. There's also disagreement within the U.S. government about whether the attack will ultimately take place.
Reuters was unable to immediately confirm the report. The National Security Council also did not respond to a request for comment.
Meanwhile, neither the Israeli embassy in Washington nor the Israeli Prime Minister's office provided any reaction.
However, a source familiar with the intelligence told CNN that "the likelihood of an Israeli attack on Iran's nuclear facilities has significantly increased in recent months."
The CNN report further stated that the individual also said, "If the U.S. reaches a deal with Iran that doesn't include the removal of all of the country's uranium, the chances of an attack will be higher."
President Donald Trump's administration continues to negotiate with Tehran for a diplomatic agreement regarding Iran's nuclear program.
CNN reported that the new intelligence is based on official and private communications by senior Israeli officials, as well as Israeli communications and observations of Israeli military movements that could indicate an attack.
On the other hand, on Tuesday, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei stated that the U.S. demand to halt Tehran's uranium enrichment is "excessive and offensive." State media reported that Khamenei expressed doubt about whether new nuclear deal negotiations would be successful.
(Source: Reuters)
