According to a recent report, former US President Donald Trump is considering authorising limited military strikes against Iran to pressure the regime into agreeing to a nuclear deal. This development comes as the United States has deployed significant military assets to the region, including two aircraft carriers and dozens of warplanes, with preparations suggesting potential action within days.
Military Buildup and Strategic Planning
Multiple news outlets, citing unnamed sources, have reported that the US military has moved assets to be ready for strikes as soon as this weekend. People familiar with closed-door discussions indicate that Trump is weighing an initial assault targeting a few military or government sites. This could be followed by a much broader campaign if Iran does not yield, with one source telling the Wall Street Journal that strikes might steadily increase until a deal is made or the regime falls.
Diplomatic Threats and Iranian Response
At his inaugural Board of Peace meeting, Trump warned world leaders that Iran must make a deal or face "really bad things," setting a deadline of 10 to 15 days. In response, Tehran issued a fresh threat, stating in a letter to UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres that it would retaliate against US bases in the region if attacked. The letter emphasised that Iran would not start a war but would respond decisively and proportionately to any aggression.
Uncertainty and Escalating Tensions
US sources have indicated that Trump has not yet made a final decision on how to tackle the crisis. Options reportedly range from more targeted strikes to sustained operations lasting weeks. White House officials told CNN that Trump continues to prefer a diplomatic solution, and troops have not received target lists, suggesting strikes are not yet cleared. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly remarked, "only President Trump knows what he may or may not do."
Recent Military Actions and Regional Dynamics
Last summer, Trump authorised American bombers to drop bunker-buster bombs on Iran's underground facilities, a campaign that US intelligence concluded may have only set back Iran's nuclear programme by months. Amid current tensions, the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier was spotted off Oman and will soon be joined by the USS Gerald R Ford, the world's largest warship. Additionally, over 50 F-35, F-22, and F-16 fighter jets have been moved to the region, according to Axios.
International Implications and Broader Context
Trump has warned that if Iran fails to agree to a deal, it may be "necessary" to attack from bases like Diego Garcia or RAF Fairford, potentially dragging Britain into the conflict. This follows renewed threats since January, as Iran cracked down on anti-government protests, and after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warned that Tehran was reconstituting facilities struck last year. Iranian and Russian warships have also conducted joint drills, highlighting the heightened geopolitical stakes.
