In a stunning revelation that underscores the razor’s edge of Middle East geopolitics, Israel was poised to launch a full-scale military onslaught against Iran’s nuclear infrastructure as early as May 2025—until an unexpected shift in U.S. policy under former President Donald Trump brought the operation to a sudden halt.

According to senior intelligence leaked to The New York Times, the Israeli government had meticulously prepared an audacious campaign aimed at neutralizing Iran’s nuclear capabilities for at least a year. The mission, orchestrated in complete secrecy, was designed to deliver a strategic blow to Iran’s uranium enrichment program and missile development facilities. Yet, as warplanes were being readied and intelligence teams fine-tuned cyber disruption protocols, the White House abruptly changed course, prioritizing a high-stakes diplomatic overture to Tehran.

Operation Delayed, Not Abandoned

While Israel stood ready to unleash its formidable F-35I Adir and F-15I Ra'am squadrons, equipped for deep-penetration bombing raids and electronic warfare, the plan was shelved when President Trump—after months of behind-the-scenes deliberations—opted to test Iran’s willingness to engage in indirect negotiations. This about-face came despite Iran’s ongoing economic distress and military weakening, and amid signals from Tehran indicating readiness for backchannel diplomacy.

The Israeli plan, vetted by top military brass and Mossad leadership, sought U.S. backing for munitions and strategic cover. Targets included Iran’s most fortified nuclear sites—Natanz and Fordow—located deep underground and protected by Russian-made S-300 missile batteries. Bunker-busting ordnance like the GBU-57 “Massive Ordnance Penetrator,” owned solely by the U.S., was essential for a successful strike.

The only purpose of Iran’s nuclear program is to create weapons.

We can’t allow that or negotiate with this regime.

Provide our comprehensive military support and whatever else Israel requires to destroy Iran’s capabilities. pic.twitter.com/KnI2FiX1As

— U.S. Senator John Fetterman (@SenFettermanPA) April 18, 2025

Cyber, Commando and Air: A Tri-Pronged Strategy

In what would have been one of the most complex joint operations in modern history, Israel planned to blend brute force with sophisticated digital warfare. The blueprint called for preemptive cyberattacks to paralyze Iranian command centers and jam missile guidance systems. Elite Israeli commandos were also prepped for high-risk infiltration operations before that component was scrapped in favor of a cleaner, precision-driven air campaign.

Supporting this offensive was Israel’s full spectrum of missile defense infrastructure—Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems—all placed on high alert. Simultaneously, the U.S. repositioned advanced hardware to the region: THAAD and Patriot systems, two aircraft carriers, and stealth bombers at Diego Garcia.

Great to hear.

We have a shared interest with Israel in stopping Iran from getting a nuclear weapon—especially as Iran is developing missiles that can hit America. https://t.co/IeANrUmidn

— Mike Pompeo (@mikepompeo) April 23, 2025

Trump’s Diplomatic Pivot Shakes Israeli Calculus

The game-changer came in April when Trump, hosting Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House, publicly unveiled his intent to reengage Iran diplomatically. “We’re giving peace one more chance,” Trump stated, while underscoring that military options remained “locked and loaded” should Tehran play false.

Despite Netanyahu’s private objections and widespread consensus in Israel that time was running out, Trump’s move effectively froze the operational greenlight. The timing was doubly troubling for Israel, coming just as Iran and Russia ratified a sweeping 20-year defense and economic pact, complicating any future strike scenarios.

Former Iranian Diplomat Amir Mousavi: Nuclear Talks Will Not Stop “Death to America” Chants in Iran; Israel Will Be Erased pic.twitter.com/Q8chHbD0bS

— MEMRI (@MEMRIReports) April 23, 2025

Still on the Brink

Even as diplomacy resumes, Israel has refused to stand down. The Israeli Air Force has been running war games simulating Iranian missile barrages, while Mossad has reactivated contingency plans for renewed sabotage efforts. CIA Director John Ratcliffe’s recent emergency visit to Jerusalem underscored the gravity of the situation, with covert operations and stricter sanctions now back on the table.

Meanwhile, newly appointed U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee delivered a blunt message in Tel Aviv: “Iran is not just Israel’s problem—it’s the world’s.”

Israeli President Isaac Herzog, speaking from an IDF command bunker, reaffirmed, “The Jewish state will never allow a genocidal regime to arm itself with nuclear weapons—not now, not ever.”

NEW 🔴

CENTCOM Chief Kurilla will visit Israel in the coming days to coordinate on Iran.

He’s known for supporting strikes on Tehran’s nuclear program.

Meanwhile, the Israeli Air Force is stepping up preparations for a potential strike in Iran, either alone or with U.S.… pic.twitter.com/Jxs4zTPRMS

— Open Source Intel (@Osint613) April 21, 2025

Conclusion: An Uneasy Pause, A Ticking Clock

Trump’s gamble on diplomacy has delayed what could have been a region-altering confrontation. But with Iran emboldened by Russian backing and Hezbollah lurking in the wings, the lull may be short-lived. The skies over the Middle East remain charged with potential, and one miscalculation—from Tehran, Tel Aviv, or Washington—could ignite a conflict with global implications.

In this high-stakes chess match, Israel remains ready to strike. The question is no longer if—but when.