Israel and U.S. navigate tensions over potential strikes on Iranian energy infrastructure

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz stated that the United States is currently preventing Israel from targeting Iranian energy infrastructure due to concerns regarding global economic stability and energy markets. Katz noted that while Israel is interested in striking these targets, Washington fears such actions could trigger Iranian retaliation against neighboring countries and cause a global oil crisis.

Despite these restrictions, Katz confirmed that American combat aircraft are flying from Israel toward targets in Iran, noting that Iran is aware of the U.S. military presence in the region. He emphasized that Israel remains prepared to respond with full force to any direct attacks.

In a separate development, Admiral Brad Cooper, head of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), reportedly suggested during a visit to Israel that resuming joint strikes on Iranian gas, oil, and power infrastructure could be necessary to change Tehran’s negotiating stance. Cooper indicated that such strikes would be “game-changing” and painful for Iran.

These military discussions occur amid reported tensions between U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding strategy toward Iran. While Trump has recently advocated for a diplomatic solution involving nuclear and maritime agreements, Israeli leadership continues to push for more aggressive measures, including the removal of the Iranian leadership.