The United States and Israel are discussing what could become one of the most extensive bombing campaigns against Iran's energy infrastructure to date, with potential strikes possible over the weekend, according to multiple sources cited by CBS News.
The report said discussions included the possibility of concluding any military operation before global financial markets open on Monday, August 3, due to concerns over the potential impact on the US and global economy. However, no final timeline has been agreed.
According to the sources, Israeli officials have been informed of the planning and are coordinating with Washington, although US President Donald Trump has not yet given the final authorisation for the operation.
If launched, the campaign would mark Israel's return to military operations against Iran after combat was paused under a US-brokered truce. Iran has not carried out attacks on Israel since the ceasefire arrangement collapsed and US military operations resumed in early July.
However, an Israeli official told CBS News that no decision had been made to resume full-scale operations.
According to the report, the proposed operation was discussed during President Trump's cabinet meeting at Camp David on July 31. Sources said some White House officials focused on domestic political issues expressed strong opposition to the plan.
The reported target list includes key elements of Iran's energy infrastructure, such as power plants and oil refineries.
Earlier on July 31, Trump told reporters he intended to resume heavy military strikes to pressure Iran's leadership into returning to negotiations. He predicted that sustained military pressure would eventually weaken the country's hard-line leadership.
In response to the reports, a senior Iranian official said Tehran had prepared a "comprehensive response plan" in the event that the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran's energy infrastructure.
By Sabina Mammadli
