Tensions between the United States and Iran have sharply increased, as reports suggest the US military is prepared to launch a strike as early as this weekend. However, President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision on whether to authorise military action.
According to sources familiar with internal discussions, preparations are in place, but diplomacy is still officially being considered.
White House Briefed as Military Buildup Intensifies
Sources told CNN that the White House has been informed the US military could be ready to act by the weekend. This follows a noticeable increase in American air and naval forces in the Middle East.
Key Military Developments:
Additional air and naval assets moved into the region
US Air Force refuelling tankers and fighter jets repositioned from the United Kingdom
The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford expected to arrive in the region soon
Heightened alert levels across US military bases
Despite these preparations, one source stressed that President Trump is still weighing both sides of the argument. He has reportedly asked advisers and close allies whether military action is the right move.
“He is spending a lot of time thinking about this,” a source familiar with discussions said.
Situation Room Meeting and High-Level Briefings
Senior national security officials met on Wednesday in the White House Situation Room to discuss Iran. President Trump was also briefed by:
Steve Witkoff, special envoy
Jared Kushner, Trump’s son-in-law
The briefing focused on indirect talks held with Iranian representatives in Geneva.
However, there is still no clear confirmation that a final decision will be made before the weekend.
Indirect US–Iran Talks in Geneva Show Limited Progress
On Tuesday, American and Iranian negotiators held indirect talks in Geneva. According to officials:
The discussions lasted three-and-a-half hours
Messages were passed between delegations rather than direct talks
Iran claimed both sides agreed on a “set of guiding principles”
A US official said “many details remain unresolved”
While both sides described the talks as constructive, there was no breakthrough.
White House: Diplomacy First, But Military Action Still an Option
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Iran is expected to clarify its negotiating position within the next few weeks. However, she refused to say whether military action would be delayed during that period.
“I’m not going to set deadlines on behalf of the president of the United States,” she said.
She added that:
Diplomacy remains Trump’s preferred first option
Military action is still “on the table”
The president is relying heavily on advice from his national security team
Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Israel on February 28 to meet Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and discuss the Iran negotiations.
Iran Fortifies Nuclear Facilities Amid Rising Pressure
As Washington increases pressure, Iran has reportedly begun strengthening its nuclear sites.
New satellite imagery and analysis from the Institute for Science and International Security show:
Concrete reinforcements around facilities
Large quantities of soil used to bury key sites
Defensive measures aimed at protecting nuclear infrastructure
These moves suggest Tehran is preparing for possible military action.
Global Calendar Events May Affect Timing
Several international events could influence the timing of any potential strike:
1. Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympics conclude on Sunday. Some European officials believe no attack would take place before the Games end, traditionally a time of global unity.
2. Ramadan
The Muslim holy month of Ramadan began this week. Middle Eastern allies of the US have reportedly urged caution, warning that military action during Ramadan could inflame regional tensions.
3. State of the Union Address
President Trump is due to deliver his annual State of the Union address next Tuesday. Aides say it will focus heavily on domestic issues ahead of the midterm election year.
It remains unclear whether these events are influencing Trump’s thinking.
Concerns Grow Over Possible Military Conflict
The unclear messaging from the White House has raised concerns about a possible military conflict between the US and Iran.
While Trump has repeatedly stated he does not want Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, he has not clearly outlined:
The exact objectives of a strike
Whether regime change is a goal
How long a military campaign might last
So far, there has been limited effort to gain formal approval from Congress or broad public support for major military action.
What Happens Next?
At this stage:
The US military appears operationally ready
Diplomatic channels remain open
Iran continues to reinforce its nuclear infrastructure
The final decision rests solely with President Donald Trump
The coming days could prove critical in determining whether tensions escalate into open conflict or move back towards negotiation.
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