US launches fifth night of Iran strikes as Israel weighs scenarios for joining war

The United States launched its fifth consecutive night of strikes against Iran, targeting infrastructure and energy facilities, including an airport, bridges, and a communications tower. This escalation follows the U.S. informing Israel of its intent to expand strikes. Despite the intensified campaign, Israeli officials assess that Iran currently does not wish to attack Israel directly, though Jerusalem is preparing for such a possibility. An Israeli official stated, "We are ready, and if they make that mistake, they will pay a heavy price. Let them come." Iran has threatened to broaden its attacks if the U.S. further intensifies its campaign, having already targeted Gulf states and American military bases. U.S. Central Command also reported boarding an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman to enforce a maritime blockade on Iran. Israeli President Isaac Herzog welcomed the firm U.S. response, stating, "I am glad the American response is firm, so that everyone understands, especially the Iranians, that they must get back on track if they truly want to implement a path out of the war."