US May Strike Iran Soon as Trump Weighs Military Options Amid Rising Tensions

The United States military is prepared to launch strikes on Iran as early as this weekend, according to multiple media reports, though President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision. The development comes amid a major military buildup in the Middle East and ongoing diplomatic efforts to resolve tensions.

Senior national security officials met in the White House Situation Room to assess options, while Trump continues consultations with advisers and allies.

Largest Regional Military Buildup Since 2003

The United States is deploying its largest air power presence in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq War. The buildup includes advanced fighter aircraft, support systems, and naval forces aimed at strengthening operational readiness.

Aircraft being positioned include the F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor, along with command-and-control aircraft and aerial refuelling tankers to support sustained operations.

Carrier Strike Groups and Naval Deployment

The US Navy has expanded its presence with the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln already operating in the region alongside multiple destroyers.

A second carrier strike group led by USS Gerald R. Ford is en route and could arrive soon, further strengthening US maritime capabilities in the Middle East and eastern Mediterranean.

Military Options Under Consideration

Officials have reportedly presented Trump with a range of military options. These include limited strikes targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities as well as broader campaigns aimed at degrading military and leadership structures.

Some reports suggest that any military action could extend over several weeks, depending on objectives and regional responses.

Diplomatic Talks Continue Amid Rising Pressure

Despite the military buildup, diplomatic engagement continues. Indirect talks in Geneva between US and Iranian representatives produced no clear breakthrough, though both sides indicated limited progress.

White House officials say diplomacy remains the preferred option, but military action remains under consideration if negotiations fail.

Meanwhile, Iran has reportedly reinforced key nuclear facilities by adding protective barriers, according to satellite imagery analyses.

Regional Tensions and Strategic Implications

The Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route, remains a focal point of regional tensions. Analysts warn that any escalation could affect global oil supplies, maritime security, and broader Middle East stability.

Reports also suggest potential coordination with Israel in the event of military action, raising the possibility of a wider regional conflict.

Critical Moment for US–Iran Relations

With military assets moving into position and diplomacy yielding limited progress, the coming days may prove decisive in shaping Washington’s strategy toward Tehran.

While officials continue to emphasise diplomatic solutions, the scale of the buildup highlights the fragile balance between negotiation and confrontation in one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints.