Israel Hayom reports growing concerns in Tel Aviv over a potential Iranian attack

Political Desk: Israel Hayom reported on October 18, 2026, that the Israeli military was on heightened alert with eight days remaining before the country’s elections. Although senior security officials said there was no specific intelligence indicating an escalation in tensions, one of the Israeli defense establishment’s main concerns is that Iran could conclude that Israel and the United States intend to use the election period as an opportunity to catch Tehran off guard once again.

Under such circumstances, Iran could seek to preempt a potential attack by taking the initiative and striking first, based on the assumption that the side that acts first generally enjoys a strategic advantage.

However, the Israel Hayom report highlights an important consideration: some Israeli political figures may be heightening political and security tensions by raising the prospect of a preemptive strike on the eve of the election. This comes as senior defense officials say there is no immediate need to launch an attack or initiate military action in the days remaining before the vote.

Will Israel Attack Iran Before the Election?

Despite concerns about the possibility of another round of conflict, senior Israeli military commanders believe there is no need to start a war before the election. According to the report, the military’s main priorities in the coming days are to remain prepared for unexpected developments, maintain security stability, and ensure that the election can take place as scheduled.

Nevertheless, Eyal Zamir, chief of staff of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), believes the Iranian threat remains and that Israel will eventually have to engage in another round of military confrontation.

How Serious Is the Prospect of an Independent Israeli Strike on Iran?

Israel Hayom expresses considerable skepticism toward reports claiming that the United States has asked Israel to act against Iran alone or that Tel Aviv is considering an independent strike. However, the newspaper writes that Israel is preparing for a scenario in which it might have to take military action without American support if other options reach a dead end.

The report highlights the close relationship between Eyal Zamir and Brad Cooper, the commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which developed during preparations for Operation Roaring Lion.

According to the assessment outlined in the report, the prevailing assumption is that if Israel enters another war, it will do so alongside the United States.

U.S. Midterm Elections and Oil Prices: A Major Obstacle to Another War?

One factor influencing Washington’s calculations is the upcoming U.S. midterm elections.

Israel Hayom writes that the last thing Donald Trump needs or wants is to enter the midterm elections with the United States engaged in an active war with Iran and oil prices on the rise.

This consideration is particularly significant from an economic perspective. An escalation involving Iran, Israel, and the United States could affect oil market expectations and put upward pressure on prices by intensifying concerns over energy supplies.

Iran Is Not Israel’s Only Security Concern

The report also points to rising tensions in the West Bank, including clashes linked to attacks by right-wing Israeli settlers against Palestinians during the olive harvest. These incidents have injured an American photographer and diplomats from Poland, Belgium, and France.

According to Israel Hayom, ongoing tensions in Lebanon and Gaza have added to Israel’s growing list of security challenges, making the situation increasingly difficult for military commanders and the next government to manage.