The U.S. reportedly urged Israel to launch a unilateral strike on Iran during talks over the past two weeks, rather than carrying out an American or joint operation.

Washington wanted Israel to bear the political risks ahead of the U.S. midterm elections, believing a strike could hurt Trump politically but benefit Netanyahu ahead of Israel’s elections.

Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir warned U.S. officials that such an attack would likely force Israel to postpone its elections. Washington has reportedly dropped the demand for now.

The proposed strike was driven by intelligence indicating that Iran is rapidly rebuilding its drone and ballistic missile production capabilities despite months of U.S. and Israeli attacks.

Source: Maariv