Defense officials concerned Iran may launch missiles at Israel amid increasing US pressure

Senior Israeli defense officials expressed concern to the Security Cabinet that Iran could miscalculate and launch missiles at Israel amid continued US pressure and a worsening economic situation. The US maritime and air blockade is described as very effective, with all Iranian airlines grounded.

Senior Israeli defense officials told members of the Security Cabinet on Sunday that they are concerned Iran could miscalculate and launch missiles at Israel amid continued US pressure and the country's worsening economic situation. Since exchanges of strikes in the war with Iran came to a lull following US President Donald Trump's announcement of a two-week ceasefire on April 7, Iran has launched missiles at Israel only once. Military Intelligence Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder told ministers that the US maritime and air blockade is "very effective," stating that "the Americans control the strait – much more than the Iranians control it." On September 23, the US imposed sanctions on 27 Iranian airlines, cutting off fuel suppliers and ground-handling services from the dollar-based financial system, leading numerous countries to ban Iranian airlines from landing. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said "all Iranian airlines have been grounded." Senior IDF officials told ministers the measures are having significant implications for Iran's economic situation, stating that "the situation is deteriorating. Every day, it gets worse. If Trump remains persistent, this will go in a good direction."