Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were still operating under the original campaign goals and had been authorized to continue strikes in the coming days. However, he added that the extent of U.S. damage to Iranian nuclear sites was still under review. “I validated the continuation of the offensive,” Katz stated, while IDF spokesperson Effie Defrin said forces were preparing for an extension if necessary.

A senior Israeli source suggested the campaign could shift direction depending on Iran’s response. “If the fighting were to end now, Israel would have achieved most of its military objectives,” the person said, noting some policymakers favored diplomacy if Iran held back.

Strikes Hit Missile Launchers and Commanders

According to Israeli military assessments, over 50% of Iran’s ballistic missile launchers were “neutralized,” and strikes also damaged missile production sites. The Israeli operation, launched ten days ago, has already killed about two dozen senior Iranian military commanders and nuclear scientists.

The main objective, as stated by Israeli officials, was to “eliminate the threat” from Tehran’s missile and nuclear programs. The campaign’s ultimate goal reportedly included the destruction of the underground Fordow nuclear enrichment site, which was considered impervious to Israeli munitions and required U.S. bunker-busting bombs.

Netanyahu Declares Milestone Achieved

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the “Rising Lion” campaign in the past tense after U.S. strikes, suggesting a turning point may have been reached. “Together we achieved unprecedented achievements in Israeli history,” he said. “I promised Iran’s nuclear facilities would be destroyed one way or another. That promise was kept.”

Nonetheless, Israeli jets continued to strike Iranian targets over the weekend, signaling a desire to maintain pressure as Iran formulates its response.

Iran Fires Back Amid Uncertainty

Iran launched two barrages of over 20 ballistic missiles into Israel on Sunday, targeting Tel Aviv, Ness Ziona, and Haifa. Local health officials reported 20 injuries. While Iran has not commented on the damage from U.S. or Israeli strikes, its retaliatory moves suggest continued volatility.

Observers remain cautious, noting the potential for escalation remains unless diplomatic overtures take hold. Some Israeli officials indicate that regime change in Iran or even targeting its supreme leadership was once a long-term goal, but that ambition may now give way to strategic recalibration.

Context: A Shift in Strategy

The Israeli campaign began with aggressive rhetoric and expansive goals. Now, with American involvement delivering what officials claim were devastating blows to Iran’s nuclear program, Israel may be recalibrating toward a phase of strategic containment and diplomacy. However, continued missile exchanges and uncertain Iranian intentions keep the region on edge.