Israeli officials have privately advised the United States to delay any immediate military measures against Iran, expressing concern that external intervention could undermine the impact of ongoing protests rather than accelerate political change.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, Israel conveyed support for efforts aimed at weakening Iran’s leadership but cautioned that direct military action at this stage could rally public support around the authorities. Instead, Israeli representatives suggested alternative measures such as tighter economic sanctions, efforts to improve internet access inside Iran, cyber operations, or narrowly targeted actions against specific individuals.
Regional allies in the Persian Gulf have also raised objections to military strikes. Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar have reportedly warned Washington that an attempt to overthrow Iran’s government through force could destabilise the region, disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz and trigger sharp shocks in global energy markets. Gulf officials stressed that such consequences could ultimately harm the US economy.
Saudi officials are said to have assured Tehran that they would not take part in any conflict and would not permit their airspace to be used for strikes. Other regional figures cautioned that escalation could have the unintended effect of uniting Iranians behind their government, citing past episodes in which foreign attacks boosted domestic support for the authorities.
The US administration has acknowledged that multiple options are under consideration in response to Iran’s suppression of protests, ranging from diplomacy and sanctions to cyber measures and potential military action. While no final decision has been announced, officials have indicated a preference for diplomatic solutions, even as contingency planning continues.
Protests in Iran began in late December, initially driven by economic hardship and the collapse of the national currency before evolving into wider political demonstrations. Human rights groups report significant casualties and mass arrests during the security crackdown, adding urgency to international debate over how to respond.
