Washington is preparing for the possibility of weeks-long military operations against Iran should President Donald Trump order an attack, according to two U.S. Officials. The preparations, disclosed as diplomatic efforts to revive the Iran nuclear deal continue, significantly raise the stakes in a situation already fraught with tension.
The planning extends beyond the limited strikes carried out in June, often referred to as “Midnight Hammer,” which targeted Iranian nuclear facilities. This time, officials indicate a potential campaign targeting Iranian state and security facilities, not solely nuclear infrastructure. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasized the sensitive nature of the planning.
The increased scope of potential operations carries greater risks for U.S. Forces, given Iran’s substantial missile arsenal. The U.S. Anticipates Iranian retaliation, potentially leading to a protracted exchange of strikes and counter-strikes, and a wider regional conflict. The White House and Pentagon have not publicly commented on the specific risks of retaliation or escalation.
The developments come as U.S. Envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are scheduled to hold negotiations with Iranian representatives in Geneva on Tuesday, with Oman acting as a mediator. Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned that reaching a deal with Tehran would be “very hard to do,” despite President Trump’s stated preference for a diplomatic resolution.
Adding to the pressure, the Pentagon announced Friday the deployment of an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, bolstering the existing U.S. Military presence with thousands of additional troops, fighter aircraft, and guided-missile destroyers. This move, intended to demonstrate U.S. Resolve, also underscores the potential for military action.
President Trump has openly discussed the possibility of regime change in Iran, stating on Friday that a change in power “seems like that would be the best thing that could happen.” While he declined to name potential successors, his comments signal a willingness to consider options beyond a purely nuclear-focused agreement.
The U.S. Military buildup and rhetoric come after years of escalating tensions with Iran. While Trump has previously expressed reluctance to deploy ground troops, the current array of U.S. Firepower in the region suggests a focus on air and naval strikes. However, the recent example of Venezuela, where the U.S. Considered utilizing special operations forces, demonstrates a willingness to explore a broader range of options.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that President Trump “has all options on the table with regard to Iran,” and that he bases his decisions on what is best for U.S. National security. The Pentagon declined to provide further comment.
The current situation echoes the tensions of last year, when two U.S. Aircraft carriers were deployed to the region prior to the “Midnight Hammer” operation. However, that operation was described as a one-off attack, while the current planning suggests a more sustained and comprehensive approach.
Experts warn that a sustained campaign against Iran would significantly increase the risks to U.S. Forces and the broader Middle East. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard has warned that any attack on Iranian territory could trigger retaliatory strikes against U.S. Military bases throughout the region, including those in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey.
Israel, a key U.S. Ally, has also weighed in, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu emphasizing that any agreement with Iran must address Israel’s security concerns. Iran, for its part, has indicated a willingness to discuss curbs on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, but has ruled out linking the issue to its ballistic missile program.
Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s toppled shah, has urged Washington not to prolong negotiations with the current Iranian regime, arguing that military intervention could hasten its downfall. Pahlavi believes the Iranian government is on the brink of collapse and that a decisive action could empower the Iranian people to overthrow the clerical rulers.
The situation remains highly volatile, with diplomatic efforts proceeding alongside preparations for potential military action. The coming days and weeks will be critical in determining whether a negotiated solution can be reached, or whether the region is headed for a more serious confrontation.
