An Israeli military official informed CNN on Thursday that Israel is maintaining a “high level of readiness” in anticipation of a potential Iranian response.

However, the official noted that Israel is “still assessing the decision-making process in Iran” to better understand if and when any retaliation may occur.

The source explained that Israel’s recent strikes targeting Iran’s missile production sites and air defense facilities have “created a dilemma for Tehran,” as these operations have weakened Iran’s ability both to launch attacks against Israel and to protect itself from future Israeli actions.

This statement comes amid reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has instructed the Supreme National Security Council to prepare for an attack on Israel.

According to a report in The New York Times on Thursday, Khamenei reached this decision after reviewing an in-depth report from senior military officials detailing significant damage to Iran’s missile production centers, air defense systems around Tehran, essential energy facilities, and a major port in southern Iran.

On Wednesday, a senior source conveyed to CNN that Iran is planning another strike on Israel, likely before the upcoming U.S. presidential election next Tuesday.

The source indicated that Iran’s planned response to last week’s Israeli air strikes on its military assets will be substantial.

White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre later told the press that the United States stands ready to support Israel should Iran initiate an attack.

On Thursday, U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin spoke with Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant and, as per a Pentagon statement, “reaffirmed that the United States remains fully prepared to defend US personnel, Israel, and partners across the region against threats from Iran and Iran-backed proxy groups.”

{Matzav.com}