ISRAEL is preparing for a ground attack on Iran before Christmas after commando dry runs in the Iraq desert, British spies have warned.
Generals in Tel Aviv believe they have until the end of the year to strike at Iran?s nuclear programme.
An assault would spark chaos across the Middle East, plunging the delicate region back into a full-blown war.
Israeli leaders made it clear this week they are ready to launch military action alone to stop Tehran, led by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, getting the bomb if the US doesn?t.
Late October or early November have been identified by intelligence analysts as a likely time because of the US elections on November 6. President Obama and challenger Mitt Romney will fear condemning any Israeli action for fear of losing the huge Jewish vote.
A senior Whitehall source said: ?We know the Israelis have been active in the Iraq desert, it would appear preparing forward bases for a ground assault.
?Bombing Iranian nuclear installations will most likely be a part of their plan, but the only way to confirm they have destroyed what they need to is to put boots on the ground.
?It is a very big concern. Iran would have to retaliate, putting the region into an extremely dangerous situation.?
The main target would be a heavily fortified uranium enrichment plant at Fordo, near the holy city of Qom.
An Israeli strike would also spark a crisis within the Coalition Government here. Britain?s decision on whether to support or condemn Tel Aviv would split the Tories and Lib Dems.
An interview with an anonymous senior Israeli politician this week ? widely believed to be defence minister Ehud Barak ? made it clear Israel had already decided to act alone.
The minister said: ?We can?t wait to find out one morning that we relied on the Americans but were fooled because the Americans didn?t act. Israel is strong and Israel is responsible, and will do what it has to do.?
t.newtondunn@the-sun.co.uk
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