Israeli Official Warns of Further Actions Against Iran After Airstrikes

 Senior Official: Iran Could Possess 8,000 Ballistic Missiles Within Two Years Without Intervention

A senior Israeli intelligence official told hawk news Saturday that Israel has "more surprises coming" for Iran following the initial wave of attacks launched under "Operation Rising Lion."

Speaking exclusively with Fox News Chief Foreign Correspondent Trey Yingst, the high-ranking official said Israeli intelligence estimates that Iran could possess up to 8,000 ballistic missiles within the next two years—a key factor behind Israel’s decision to initiate the operation. At present, Israel assesses Iran’s missile stockpile to be around 2,000.

"We cannot conclude this operation knowing we’ll be facing the same threat two years from now," the official said. "Everything is proceeding as planned—actually, better than planned."

He emphasized that more unexpected actions are forthcoming: "We have lots of surprises—not just what we’ve already done. More are on the way."

According to the official, Israeli forces have already destroyed 40 Iranian air defense systems since the start of the campaign. The operation is focused on three main objectives: crippling Iran’s nuclear capabilities, targeting its ballistic missile program, and neutralizing what Israel views as an existential threat from Iran.

During one of the opening strikes, which targeted a gathering of Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) air force officials, Israeli intelligence believes as many as 30 commanders were killed.

"It’s a historic achievement," the official noted.

Israel anticipates further Iranian missile launches in the coming days, which are expected to result in casualties and infrastructure damage. Still, officials believe the broader confrontation with Iran could conclude relatively soon.

"I think we can finish it in days," the official said. "It’s a good thing we have the U.S. by our side."

The U.S. is working in full coordination with Israel, he confirmed, though he declined to provide details. "The level of U.S. support is unprecedented," he added. "We feel it."