Amidst a rapidly evolving Middle Eastern landscape, the Israeli Air Force is reportedly preparing for a potential strike against Iran's nuclear program. This development comes as the incoming Trump administration is said to be considering a "maximum pressure 2.0" campaign against Tehran.

The changing political dynamics, including the weakening of Hezbollah in Lebanon and Syria, have left Iran increasingly isolated. This shift has prompted Israel to reassess its options regarding Iran's nuclear ambitions, which are viewed as a significant threat by Jerusalem and its allies.

Earlier this year, Israel reportedly pursued similar action against Iran's nuclear facilities. While the Biden administration and international partners have discouraged such strikes, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed an Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) operation in late October that targeted and partially disrupted Iran's nuclear program. Netanyahu cautioned, however, that this action was insufficient to fully neutralize Tehran's nuclear weapon development capabilities.

Echoing this concern, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz recently highlighted Iran's increased vulnerability to strikes on its nuclear sites, emphasizing the opportunity to address the perceived existential threat posed by Iran.

The full impact of previous Israeli strikes on Iran's nuclear program remains uncertain. The International Atomic Energy Agency continues to report that Iran is rapidly accumulating near-weapons-grade enriched uranium.

President-elect Trump has signaled a return to a tougher stance on Iran's nuclear ambitions. Reports suggest his transition team is exploring a "maximum pressure 2.0" strategy, including the potential for preventative airstrikes without engaging the U.S. military in direct conflict with Iran. While the Trump team has not officially commented, the president-elect acknowledged in a recent interview that "anything can happen" regarding a potential war with Iran.