US stops Netanyahu's reported Iran strike plan ahead of Israeli election

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mossad chief Roman Gofman reportedly pursued a military operation against Iran shortly before Israel's October 27 election, but the plan was abandoned after the United States learned of it and intervened, according to Israeli media reports.

Channel 12, as cited by The Times of Israel, reported that senior Israeli security officials had opposed the proposed action, warning that it could trigger a wider conflict with Tehran and create instability ahead of the polls. Preparations reportedly continued despite their objections, until an operational error by an Israeli security officer alerted Washington.

Netanyahu's office denied that any pre-election strike had been planned, maintaining that military action against Iran was not under consideration at the time.

The report comes amid growing tensions between Netanyahu and senior military officials over Iran policy. Earlier accounts said Israel Defence Forces Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir had resisted an unspecified military order and sought written authorisation from the Prime Minister.

The reported dispute comes as the US pursues diplomatic negotiations with Iran through Qatari mediation. US President Donald Trump has reportedly urged Israel not to jeopardise the talks by launching fresh attacks.

Washington has previously been reported to have opposed another Israeli offensive plan against Iran, which was said to have been ready for launch on October 10.