Does Washington really want Israel to wage a solo war against Iran? — Analysis by Amir Makhoul

An analysis by writer Amir Makhoul on the seriousness of the American demand for Israel to wage a solo war against Iran, and its implications for Netanyahu. The article is based on media reports about an American order for Israel to attack Iran, and Chief of Staff Zamir's halt of the process. The writer suggests the goal is political, not military, and that extreme tension serves Netanyahu more than war itself as elections approach.

The analytical article by writer Amir Makhoul discusses the seriousness of the American demand for Israel to wage a solo war against Iran, and its political and electoral implications for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The article is based on media reports, most notably an exclusive by 'Maariv' newspaper on October 10, 2026, that the United States ordered Israel to attack Iran alone, not merely requested it. It also notes that Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir halted this process, warning that its implementation would mean canceling Israeli elections. It adds that journalist Barak Ravid reported that the Trump administration is currently backing down from its demand. The article analyzes potential American calculations, suggesting the goal is political rather than military, as Washington realizes there is no 'solo Israeli war' against Iran due to Israel's reliance on American defensive support, especially against missiles and drones. It mentions that American public opinion accused Trump of being dragged by Netanyahu in the previous joint war in February 2026, costing him popularity. It also points to tensions within the American administration between Trump's priorities of ending the war and Netanyahu's priorities of continuing it. Regarding Netanyahu's calculations, the writer sees war chances receding as elections approach, and that Israeli society is not interested in renewed war and would treat it as a political electoral war. He concludes that the American demand appears embarrassing for Netanyahu electorally, as he would seem submissive to the American decision if he complies, and backtracking on his rhetoric if he refuses. He asserts that extreme tension serves Netanyahu more than war itself, and that the decision for war remains quintessentially American.