Israeli military tells US CENTCOM it would strike Iran if nuclear weapons pursuit is proven

TEHRAN, Iran — Israel's military has informed US Central Command that it would take direct action if Iran is found to be pursuing nuclear weapons or advancing its missile program, Israel's Channel 13 reported. The Hebrew-language broadcaster said the Israeli army conveyed the message to CENTCOM during ongoing military consultations. The same report said the United States is pressing Israel to wind down hostilities on three fronts — Iran, Lebanon and Gaza — and that CENTCOM has also asked Israel to withdraw from certain areas in southern Lebanon. The Israeli military's communication comes amid long-running international debate over Tehran's nuclear activities. Reports have also circulated in recent weeks that Iran has accelerated its uranium enrichment work, a step that would bring it closer to potential weapons-grade material. US and Israeli officials have continued military consultations that, according to the report, also covered Iran's regional activities. No further details on the Israeli response or any timeline for a possible US request were immediately available.