The United States could launch military strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, although President Donald Trump has not yet taken a final decision, according to multiple media reports citing US officials. The potential operation comes as Washington rapidly expands its military footprint in the Middle East, assembling its largest concentration of air power in the region since the 2003 invasion of Iraq.
Sources said the White House has been informed that US forces may soon be operationally ready following a major deployment of fighter jets, aerial support systems and naval assets. Trump has reportedly been weighing competing arguments from advisers and allies, balancing diplomatic efforts with growing pressure to act militarily. Senior national security officials met in the White House Situation Room to assess developments and review available options.
The possible escalation follows indirect nuclear negotiations between US and Iranian officials in Geneva, which lasted more than three hours but produced no clear breakthrough. While Iran’s negotiators spoke of agreement on broad “guiding principles,” US officials said significant gaps remain. The White House maintained that diplomacy remains the preferred path but confirmed that military action continues to be under consideration if talks fail to produce results.
At the same time, Iran has reportedly taken steps to reinforce sensitive nuclear facilities, covering key sites with concrete and soil layers, according to satellite imagery analysis. The measures are seen as preparations against potential airstrikes amid intensifying military pressure from Washington.
US military planners have presented Trump with a spectrum of operational choices. These reportedly range from limited precision strikes targeting nuclear infrastructure to a wider campaign that could involve sustained attacks on multiple strategic targets and senior Iranian leadership figures. Officials indicated that any large-scale operation could last several weeks rather than being a single short strike.
The military buildup includes advanced aircraft such as F-35 and F-22 fighter jets, command-and-control platforms and aerial refuelling tankers repositioned closer to the region. The US naval presence has expanded to 13 warships, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln, while a second carrier strike group led by the USS Gerald R. Ford is expected to arrive soon, significantly boosting strike and defence capabilities.
Officials cited by media outlets said any potential operation could involve coordination with Israel and may resemble a prolonged campaign rather than a limited response. One administration official reportedly estimated a high likelihood of military action in the coming weeks, reflecting concerns that diplomacy may be nearing its limits.
Despite the intensifying military posture, US officials continue to stress that negotiations remain ongoing and that Iran is expected to clarify its position in the coming weeks. However, with forces moving into place and talks yielding limited progress, the situation has entered a critical phase, raising fears that rising pressure and strategic signalling on both sides could escalate into a broader regional conflict.
