The U. S. military is preparing for possible extended operations against Iran if President Trump decides to attack. This planning raises tensions amid ongoing diplomatic talks between the U. S. and Iran. U. S. officials revealed that negotiators Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner will meet with Iranian representatives in Geneva, with Oman acting as a mediator. Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that reaching a deal with Iran is challenging, despite Trump’s preference for diplomacy.
In the meantime, Trump has been building up military forces in the region, heightening concerns about a potential military strike. The Pentagon is deploying an additional aircraft carrier and increasing troop levels, along with fighter planes and destroyers, equipped for both offensive and defensive operations. In a speech to U. S. troops, Trump suggested that regime change in Iran might be beneficial, although he did not specify who he would like to see in power.
While Trump has generally opposed the idea of ground troops in Iran, he has shown a willingness to use air and naval power. He previously relied on special operations forces in a failed attempt to capture Venezuela’s president. A White House spokesperson stated that Trump is considering all options regarding Iran, while the Pentagon declined to comment on military preparations.
Past U. S. military actions against Iran included sending aircraft carriers to conduct limited strikes. However, the current planning suggests a more extensive military operation could target not just nuclear facilities but also state and security infrastructure. Experts warn that such an operation would be riskier due to Iran’s missile capabilities and could escalate into a regional conflict. Trump has threatened military action against Iran for its nuclear program and internal dissent, emphasizing the potential trauma of failing to reach a diplomatic solution.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned that they would retaliate against U. S. military bases if attacked. Netanyahu of Israel emphasized that any agreement with Iran should consider Israel’s interests. Iran has expressed a willingness to discuss its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief but insists that missile issues cannot be linked to these discussions.
With information from Reuters
