US-Israel Coordination Amidst Rising Iran Tensions

Tel Aviv – Israel is reportedly awaiting a potential green light from the United States to launch attacks targeting Iran’s ballistic missile systems, as assessments from Israeli security agencies indicate an increased likelihood of a US military strike against Tehran. These developments come amid escalating tensions and stalled nuclear negotiations between the two countries.

Israel Prepares for Potential US Action

Israeli television network CAN reported on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, that Israel is preparing to respond to the possibility of authorization from the US to attack Iranian ballistic missile systems. This scenario is unfolding as international attention focuses on whether US President Donald Trump will order military action against Iran.

Security Assessments Point to Increased US Strike Probability

According to a report in the Israeli daily Haaretz, assessments within Israel’s security institutions over the past 24 hours suggest a growing possibility of a US attack on Iran. This assessment follows the latest round of negotiations between the US and Iran, held in Geneva, Switzerland, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

Haaretz reported that, despite Iran’s public statements following the Geneva talks, significant gaps remain that the US deems unbridgeable, particularly regarding Iran’s continued uranium enrichment program. Given the impasse in negotiations, Israel anticipates that Trump may opt for military action sooner than previously expected.

The report likewise indicated that the possibility of the Israeli military playing an active role in a conflict with Iran is not being ruled out, should the US initiate an attack.

Close US-Israel Coordination

Intelligence sharing, information technology, military communications, and air defense systems are areas of close coordination between the US and Israel, according to Haaretz.

US Military Readiness

US media outlets, including CNN and CBS News, reported that the US military is prepared to launch an attack on Iran as early as this weekend, although President Trump has not yet made a final decision. The White House has reportedly been briefed on the military’s readiness following a recent increase in the deployment of US air and naval assets to the Middle East.

In addition to the USS Abraham Lincoln and other US warships already in the region, the USS Gerald R. Ford – the US Navy’s most advanced aircraft carrier – is reportedly en route to the Middle East and could arrive this weekend. US Air Force assets based in the UK, including refueling aircraft and fighter jets, are also being positioned closer to the area.

Trump’s Deliberations

Sources cited by CNN indicate that President Trump has expressed arguments both for and against military action against Iran, seeking advice from advisors and allies on the best course of action. While Trump has repeatedly threatened military action if negotiations fail to yield a new nuclear deal, his final decision remains uncertain. One source quoted by CNN stated, “He spent a lot of time thinking about this.”

Recent History of US-Iran Conflict

In June 2025, following a week of air strikes between Israel and Iran, the United States directly intervened in the conflict, attacking three Iranian nuclear sites in Fordow, Isfahan, and Natanz Council on Foreign Relations.

Widespread economic hardship and protests in Iran in late 2025 led to a government crackdown resulting in over 6,400 reported protester deaths, with more than 11,000 additional deaths under investigation Council on Foreign Relations.

Iran Signals Willingness to Negotiate

Despite the heightened tensions, Iran has signaled a willingness to negotiate on its nuclear enrichment program. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, the head of the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency, ahead of the Geneva talks CBS News.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more information becomes available.