JERUSALEM / Said Amouri / AA

The Israeli Channel 13 claimed Saturday that assessments inside Israel indicate that the United States is preparing to expand the confrontation with Iran, amid escalating tensions and mutual strikes in the region.

The channel said Israeli officials estimate that US President Donald Trump is moving toward expanding operations against Iran, and described the current phase as a 'critical week'.

The channel quoted an Israeli security official claiming that the Iranians are 'making great efforts not to involve Israel in the event'.

The Israeli official considered that 'things could change if the United States decides to increase the pace of attacks, including targeting civilian facilities'.

The channel added that Israeli security bodies confirmed there are no current warnings of fire toward Israel, but considered the situation 'explosive' and could change at any moment if Iran feels it is in a difficult position, according to it.

In the same context, the channel pointed out that the United States sent military reinforcements to the region, including about 100 refueling aircraft, as part of preparations to deal with any potential developments.

It also reported that Qatari mediation efforts to calm tensions are 'ongoing,' but Israeli political bodies claim they will not affect Washington's decisions in the near term.

On June 18, 2026, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding that included a cessation of military operations and began negotiations mediated by Pakistan and Qatar.

However, US President Donald Trump announced on July 8 of this month the end of the ceasefire following renewed escalation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The United States subsequently resumed launching strikes inside Iran, while Tehran responded with attacks targeting American bases and sites in the region.

The US Central Command 'CENTCOM' says its operations aim to undermine Iranian military capabilities and sites that pose an imminent threat.