Iran buying time in nuclear talks as US prepares for possible strikes

Key Points:

• Israel's defense establishment is keeping preparations for potential escalation with Iran ambiguous, while the White House offers Iran another chance to return to nuclear negotiations amid Iran's worsening economic crisis and suspected delay tactics.
• Defense officials believe Iran will not agree to fully abandon its nuclear program or ballistic missile production, viewing ongoing talks as a time-buying strategy ahead of the U.S. midterm elections.
• Despite U.S. Central Command's preparations for possible strikes on Iran, no military action is expected before the midterms unless a surprise attack is detected; post-election plans for renewed strikes are reportedly in place.
• Israel anticipates increased U.S. pressure after the midterms to advance Gaza reconstruction through a terrorism-free Palestinian city in Rafah, but senior officials oppose rebuilding without first disarming Hamas and transferring authority from the group.
• The IDF is preparing for a ground operation to capture Gaza City and dismantle Hamas' terrorist infrastructure, as Hamas refuses to disarm; meanwhile, IDF forces in Hebron plan to demolish homes of terrorists involved in a recent deadly attack.