Iran prepares for decisive phase of war with US - three scenarios named

Iran struck US military facilities in Jordan, which, according to analysts cited by Maariv, marks a new phase in the conflict. Tehran seeks to seize the initiative, raising the cost of US involvement. Three scenarios are considered: an exchange of limited strikes, an escalation of US operations, or using the escalation as part of a negotiating strategy.

Iran struck US military facilities in Jordan, which, according to analysts cited by Maariv, indicates a new phase in the conflict between Tehran and Washington. The strike was aimed not only at military targets but also at shifting the balance of power ahead of possible negotiations. Analysts believe that in recent months the US has set the pace of escalation, combining military pressure with diplomatic efforts, while Iran mostly responded to Washington's actions. Now Tehran seeks to take the initiative, demonstrating readiness to influence the conflict's course independently. The choice of American targets over Israeli ones is explained by the desire to increase pressure directly on Washington, raising the cost of further US involvement, while avoiding steps that could provoke a large-scale expansion of hostilities against Iran itself. Analysts warn of risks: in Washington, the attacks may be seen as crossing a red line, potentially leading to a harsher military response. Three scenarios are considered: continued exchange of limited strikes, a sharp increase in US operations with strikes on missile infrastructure and command posts, or using the escalation as part of a negotiating strategy, where both sides strengthen their positions before a possible return to dialogue.