The US military is gearing up for the potential of prolonged operations against Iran if President Donald Trump gives the order, according to two US officials speaking to Reuters. This escalation could lead to a more serious conflict between the two countries than previously experienced.
The revelation, shared by officials who requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, heightens the stakes for ongoing diplomacy between the United States and Iran.
Recent diplomatic discussions between US and Iranian representatives in Oman aimed at reviving talks concerning Tehran’s nuclear program occurred following the deployment of additional military forces by Trump in the region, sparking concerns of imminent military action.
On Friday, US officials announced the dispatch of an extra aircraft carrier to the Middle East, along with thousands more troops, fighter aircraft, guided-missile destroyers, and other military assets capable of both offensive strikes and defensive actions.
During an address to US troops in North Carolina, Trump remarked on the challenges of negotiating with Iran, suggesting that a degree of fear might be necessary to resolve the situation effectively.
When asked about potential regime change in Iran, Trump expressed that it could be beneficial without specifying a preference for new leadership. He emphasized the prolonged nature of discussions with Iran, citing the toll of lives lost and injuries sustained during the process.
In response to inquiries regarding the preparations for potential sustained military action, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly reiterated that President Trump is considering all options concerning Iran, prioritizing national interests and security in his decision-making.
The Pentagon declined to provide commentary on the matter.
While the US deployed two aircraft carriers to the region last year for strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, the upcoming operation is anticipated to be more intricate and enduring, according to officials.
In a sustained campaign, US military targets could extend beyond nuclear facilities to include Iranian state and security installations, presenting a heightened risk to US forces given Iran’s significant missile capabilities. The potential for retaliatory strikes from Iran also raises concerns about regional conflict.
Expecting retaliatory actions from Iran, US officials foresee a cycle of strikes and counterstrikes over an extended period.
Trump has consistently issued threats of military action against Iran over its nuclear and missile programs, as well as its handling of domestic dissent. He underscored the potential trauma of a non-diplomatic resolution to the ongoing tensions.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned of retaliatory measures against US military bases should strikes occur on Iranian soil.
The US maintains military bases across the Middle East, including in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu met with Trump in Washington, emphasizing the importance of any agreement with Iran incorporating elements crucial to Israel.
While Iran has expressed readiness to discuss restrictions on its nuclear activities in exchange for sanctions relief, it has rejected linking this matter to missile capabilities.
