Amid growing fears of a potential war in the Middle East, the US military is reportedly ready to strike Iran as early as this weekend. However, President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision on authorizing any military action. The White House has been briefed that the military could launch an attack by the weekend, according to CNN.
Washington has significantly increased its military presence in the region, deploying air and naval assets. Top national security officials met in the White House situation room to discuss strategies, and the President received briefings from special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Trump Weighs Options for Iran Strike
It remains uncertain whether Trump will approve a strike against Iran this weekend. Sources told CNN that the President is “spending a lot of time thinking about this.” Military plans reportedly include campaigns designed to maximize damage, potentially targeting key Iranian political and military leaders, the Wall Street Journal reported.
Officials emphasized that any military action would aim to pressure Iran while minimizing US casualties, though the scale of potential attacks could be significant.
US Military Buildup in the Middle East
The US has deployed two aircraft carriers to the region, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, which is positioned about 700 kilometers from the Iranian coast with nearly 80 aircraft.
The US Air Force is moving assets from the United Kingdom, including fighter jets and refueling tankers. Additionally, military cargo planes have transported equipment to Jordan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, signaling a strong strategic presence in the region.
Iran’s Response and War Games
Iran has been demonstrating its military strength, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducting war games in the Strait of Hormuz, a critical passage for oil and gas. Iranian politicians have threatened to block the Strait in response to US actions.
Despite the escalation, Iranian officials maintain that Tehran does not want war. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed that Iran is drafting a framework for future talks, while President Masoud Pezeshkian urged diplomacy but warned against yielding to external pressure.
Diplomacy Still on the Table
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that diplomacy is the first option. She said talks in Geneva showed limited progress, but key issues remain unresolved. She added, “The president will continue to watch how this plays out,” signaling that military action is a last resort.
US Energy Secretary Chris Wright also warned that Washington will prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons “one way or the other,” citing the unacceptable threat posed by Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
