The US military is reportedly ready to strike Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision on authorizing any action, according to sources familiar with the matter. The White House has been briefed that air and naval assets in the Middle East have been significantly reinforced in recent days, making a military operation possible.
Trump has reportedly debated both for and against a strike, consulting advisers and allies on the best course of action. Top national security officials met Wednesday in the White House Situation Room to discuss the situation, and Trump was briefed by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner on recent indirect talks with Iran.
Diplomatic efforts continue in Geneva, where US and Iranian negotiators exchanged notes for over three hours on Tuesday. Iran’s chief negotiator said guiding principles were agreed upon, but details remain unresolved. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that diplomacy is the president’s first option, though military action “remains on the table.”
US military movements include the potential deployment of the USS Gerald Ford carrier group to the region by the weekend, alongside repositioning of Air Force refueling tankers and fighter jets from the United Kingdom. Satellite imagery suggests Iran is fortifying key nuclear sites amid mounting pressure.
Timing may be influenced by major events, including the conclusion of the Winter Olympics, the start of Ramadan, and Trump’s upcoming State of the Union address. US allies in the region have warned against a strike during Ramadan, citing risks of destabilization and diplomatic backlash.
Despite increasing military readiness, Trump has yet to publicly outline specific objectives for any potential strike, leaving uncertainty over whether diplomacy or force will define the coming days.
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