Iran, US prepares for sustained operations: nuclear and missile sites targeted
The carrier strike group joins the USS Abraham Lincoln in a strategic move as Tehran remains on high alert
Key points
The US military is preparing for the possibility of sustained operations, lasting weeks, against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack, two US officials told Reuters, in what could become a much more serious conflict than previously seen between the two countries. The revelation by the officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, raises the stakes for the ongoing diplomacy between the US and Iran.
Trump on Regime Change in Iran
"It seems like it would be the best thing that could happen. For 47 years they talked and talked and talked. In the meantime, we've lost a lot of lives while they've been talking. "That's how Donald Trump responded to reporters on Air Force One when asked if he wants regime change in Iran. 'I don't want to talk about it. There are people," he then responded to another question about who he would like to see take over in Tehran.
Nuclear sites in the crosshairs
US President Donald Trump is considering striking Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile sites and sending commandos to attack military targets in that country if nuclear talks with Tehran fail. The New York Times reported this, citing Washington officials.
For now, Trump's national security team has convinced him not to intervene, while the Pentagon is strengthening its capabilities in the region and reinforcing defences in the eleven countries that could be vulnerable to Iranian retaliation, according to the newspaper.
"President Trump has all options on the table regarding Iran. He listens to different perspectives on each issue, but makes the final decision based on what is best for our country and national security," said White House deputy spokeswoman Anna Kelly.
