President Donald Trump could authorize renewed major combat operations against Iran as the Pentagon reportedly prepares military options for potential strikes on the country’s nuclear, energy and infrastructure targets.
Pentagon Prepares for Possible Iran Strikes
The Pentagon has instructed U.S. Central Command to complete preparations to potentially resume major combat operations in Iran, Axios reported Wednesday, citing U.S. officials.
The directive did not set a launch date and Trump has not made a final decision on whether to order strikes.
However, U.S. and Israeli officials told the publication that renewed military action could occur before the U.S. midterm elections, though they described the possibility as relatively low.
Earlier in the day, The Atlantic also reported that Trump is considering launching strikes against Iran before the midterm elections.
In a statement to Axios, a White House official said, “President Trump holds all the cards and will do whatever is best for the United States.”
In an emailed statement to Benzinga, a Department of War official said, “The Department’s job is to develop and present military options to the President.”
The White House did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.
US-Iran Negotiations Remain Stalled
The preparations come as negotiations between Washington and Tehran show little progress. Qatari mediators are still awaiting an Iranian response to a U.S. counterproposal that reportedly includes demands for concessions on Iran’s nuclear program.
Trump’s national security team met at Camp David on Friday, with an Israeli official telling Axios that a potential resumption of major combat operations in Iran was discussed.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the meeting focused on “long-term” foreign policy planning.
Trump also reportedly spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday, their second conversation in several days.
Late in the day, WTI crude oil rose 1.12% to $89.27 per barrel, while Brent crude gained 1.26% to $101.46 per barrel. Natural gas futures rose 1.90% to $3.264 per MMBtu.
Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.
Photo: IAB Studio / Shutterstock
