Iran warns of expanded retaliation as Israel reportedly readies to attack

Israeli media report that Benjamin Netanyahu’s security cabinet has ordered the military to prepare for possible strikes on Iran, raising fears of renewed conflict as diplomatic efforts continue. Iran’s security chief has warned that, if the United States attacks again, Iranian forces could target military bases involved in the conflict across West Asia and Europe.

The reports come amid political uncertainty in Israel, where Netanyahu’s coalition lost its parliamentary majority and opposition leader Gadi Eisenkot has cautioned against military action without an immediate threat. Iran’s negotiators say distrust of Washington and the unresolved dispute over enriched uranium are obstacles to a deal; Tehran has rejected a US proposal to transfer its 60 per cent enriched uranium stockpile abroad. Brent crude rose 1.39 per cent to $92.76 a barrel on Wednesday.