Senior Israeli defense officials told members of the Security Cabinet on Sunday that they are concerned Iran could miscalculate and launch missiles at Israel amid continued US pressure and the country’s worsening economic situation.
Since exchanges of strikes in the war with Iran came to a lull, following US President Donald Trump’s announcement of a two-week ceasefire on April 7, Iran has launched missiles at Israel only once.
Military Intelligence Directorate chief Maj. Gen. Shlomi Binder told ministers that the US maritime and air blockade is “very effective.”
“The maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz is having a significant effect. The Americans control the strait – much more than the Iranians control it,” Binder said.
US sanctioned Iranian airlines, imposed air blockade
Senior IDF officials also told ministers that the air blockade, which began two weeks ago, is “increasing the effectiveness of the blockade.”
On September 23, the US imposed sanctions on 27 Iranian airlines. Among other measures, fuel suppliers and ground-handling services were cut off from the dollar-based financial system. Following the US decision, numerous countries also banned Iranian airlines from landing in their territory.
“All Iranian airlines have been grounded,” US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said.
Senior IDF officials told ministers that the measures are having significant implications for Iran’s economic situation.
“The situation is deteriorating. Every day, it gets worse. If Trump remains persistent, this will go in a good direction”.