The United States military, in a significant escalation of its contingency planning, is preparing for a potential weeks-long military operation against Iran. This development, according to two U.S. officials who spoke with Reuters, marks a notable shift from previous strategies that focused on limited strikes.
The planning comes amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts to address Iran’s contentious nuclear program. Last week, talks were held in Oman, yet no breakthrough has been reported. The potential for a prolonged military engagement suggests that the U.S. is bracing for what could become the most serious confrontation with Iran to date.
In a recent address to U.S. troops at a North Carolina base, President Donald Trump acknowledged the challenges in reaching an agreement with Iran. "Sometimes you have to have fear. That’s the only thing that really will get the situation taken care of," Trump remarked, indicating a possible hardline approach towards the Islamic Republic.
The military buildup in the Middle East has intensified, with the Pentagon announcing the deployment of an additional aircraft carrier to the region. This move brings thousands more troops, fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers, and expanded offensive and defensive capabilities.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly confirmed that President Trump is keeping all options on the table regarding Iran. "President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran," Kelly stated, as reported by The Jerusalem Post. She added that the President considers multiple viewpoints but decides based on what he believes will best serve the country's national security interests. The Pentagon declined to comment on the specifics of the planning.
The current strategy differs substantially from last year's Operation Midnight Hammer, which involved a single attack using stealth bombers to strike Iranian nuclear facilities. Iran's response was limited to a retaliatory strike against a U.S. base in Qatar. Now, the scope of potential operations under consideration extends beyond nuclear infrastructure and could include Iranian state and security facilities, although details remain undisclosed due to the sensitive nature of the planning.
Military analysts warn that extended operations could expose U.S. forces to greater risks. Iran has a substantial missile arsenal, and any American military action would likely provoke Iranian counterstrikes. Officials anticipate that Iran would respond to U.S. strikes, potentially leading to a cycle of attacks and reprisals over an extended period.
The White House and Pentagon have not publicly addressed questions about the risks of retaliation or the possibility of a broader regional conflict. President Trump has repeatedly warned that military action against Iran could be a consequence of its nuclear weapons program, ballistic missile development, and suppression of domestic opposition.
Iran’s top diplomat is set for indirect talks with the U.S. in Geneva, even as the U.S. military reportedly prepares for potential weeks-long operations. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized the importance of diplomacy in resolving the standoff.
On the other side, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have issued stern warnings, stating they would target any U.S. military installation if Iranian territory is attacked. With American forces maintaining a substantial presence across the Middle East, including military bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey, the stakes are high for both sides as they navigate this tense geopolitical landscape.
