US Strikes and Elite Split — What's Happening in Iran
The US struck dozens of IRGC targets in Iran, while the US and Saudi Arabia attacked Iranian-backed groups in Iraq, and Jordan intercepted five missiles. Inside Iran, a rift between hardliners and moderates is widening. CBS News reports a possible large-scale US-Israeli strike on Iran's energy infrastructure, but no final decision has been made.
The US has struck dozens of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) targets inside Iran, according to Maariv, citing the Jerusalem Center for Foreign Affairs and Security. Simultaneously, the US and Saudi Arabia attacked Iranian-backed armed groups in Iraq, and Jordan intercepted five missiles aimed at a base also used by American forces. Unlike previous rounds, the strikes have been confirmed by US Central Command and Western sources. Iran's claims of hitting a US base in Jordan, closing the Strait of Hormuz, and damaging Arab countries' energy infrastructure require verification. Inside Iran, a rift is intensifying: hardliners portray events as a shift to offensive and block negotiations, while moderates warn of the risk of conflict expansion, economic collapse, and state fragmentation. CBS News reports that the US and Israel are considering a large-scale strike on Iran's energy infrastructure, including power plants and refineries, potentially disrupting Tehran's electricity supply. As of the second half of Friday, no final decision has been made, and President Trump has not yet given the order. Israel is coordinating with the US, but the government has declined to comment.