President Donald Trump has intensified pressure on Iran, warning that military action remains an option if ongoing diplomatic efforts fail to produce a new nuclear agreement. However, questions persist about the long term objectives of the United States should a conflict erupt.
Trump has deployed warships and dozens of fighter jets to the Middle East, signaling readiness for a range of possible actions. Among the reported options are targeted strikes against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, attacks on Iran’s missile infrastructure, or even measures aimed at destabilizing the leadership of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei.
The United States and Iran have held indirect talks in Oman and Switzerland, but little progress has been made. Trump has stated he will decide within days whether to authorize strikes if negotiations fail. He maintains that diplomacy remains his preferred path, seeking limits on Iran’s nuclear program, ballistic missile development and support for armed groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Tehran has rejected broader concessions.
The US military presence in the region has grown significantly. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is stationed in the Middle East alongside multiple destroyers and frigates. The carrier USS Gerald R Ford is also moving toward the Mediterranean. Tens of thousands of US troops and additional aircraft are positioned across the region, assets that could become targets in the event of retaliation.
Critics in Washington argue that any sustained conflict could destabilize the region and produce unpredictable consequences within Iran. Some lawmakers insist that Congress must be consulted before military action is taken.
Regional governments are also watching closely, wary that escalation could trigger broader instability. While Trump has argued that firm action could reshape the balance of power and strengthen regional peace, analysts caution that the outcome of any strike or campaign remains uncertain.
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