The US military is making preparations for potential extended operations against Iran if President Donald Trump gives the order for an attack, according to two US officials who spoke with Reuters. This situation could escalate into a more significant conflict compared to past interactions between the two countries. The officials, requesting anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, have raised the stakes for ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.
Last week, US and Iranian diplomats engaged in discussions in Oman to revive diplomacy regarding Tehran’s nuclear program following the deployment of additional US military forces in the region, sparking concerns about possible military actions. On Friday, US officials announced that the Pentagon was dispatching an extra aircraft carrier to the Middle East, along with thousands of additional troops, fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers, and other military assets capable of both offensive and defensive operations.
During an address to US troops at a North Carolina base on Friday, President Trump remarked that reaching a deal with Iran had proven challenging. He emphasized the necessity of instilling fear to resolve the situation effectively. When asked about his stance on regime change in Iran, Trump suggested it might be the optimal outcome without specifying any particular individuals for the role.
In response to inquiries about the potential for a sustained US military campaign, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that President Trump was considering all available options concerning Iran and would prioritize the country’s best interests and national security when making decisions. The Pentagon declined to provide any comments on the matter.
The United States had deployed two aircraft carriers to the region last year during strikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. However, the operation conducted in June, known as “Midnight Hammer,” was essentially a singular US attack, with stealth bombers flying from the US to strike Iranian nuclear sites, followed by a limited retaliatory strike by Iran on a US base in Qatar.
The current planning for a potential operation against Iran is more intricate, as outlined by officials. In a sustained campaign, the US military could target Iranian state and security installations beyond nuclear infrastructure, which poses increased risks given Iran’s substantial missile capabilities. The expectation is that Iran would retaliate, leading to a series of back-and-forth strikes and reprisals over an extended period.
President Trump has frequently threatened military action against Iran over its nuclear and ballistic missile programs and its handling of internal dissent. He cautioned that failing to reach a diplomatic resolution would have severe consequences. Iranian Revolutionary Guards have warned of retaliation against any US military bases in the event of strikes on Iranian territory.
Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump in Washington, stressing the importance of including elements crucial to Israel in any potential agreement with Iran. Iran has expressed readiness to negotiate restrictions on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief but has rejected linking the missile issue to the discussions.