US President Donald Trump is considering an initial, targeted military strike option against Iran, and if diplomatic efforts prove fruitless, he may proceed with a broader operation aimed at overthrowing the country's leadership.
Modern.az reports that The New York Times, citing US officials, has published information on this matter.
According to the information, Trump is inclined to launch a limited strike in the coming days to compel Iran to abandon its nuclear weapons production capability. Potential targets include the headquarters of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, nuclear facilities, and ballistic missile infrastructure. If these steps do not yield results, a broader military operation could be on the agenda towards the end of the year. Some officials, however, question the feasibility of achieving the objective solely through air strikes; the option of special forces raids has been set aside due to operational risks.
Representatives from the US and Iran are scheduled to meet again in Geneva. Previous rounds, mediated by Oman, were held on February 6 in Muscat and February 17 in Geneva, with a third meeting planned for February 26. Officials regard this process as a “last chance” to prevent military confrontation.
The parties are also discussing a proposal that could de-escalate tensions. Under this initiative, Iran could maintain a very limited volume of uranium enrichment for medical purposes. However, it is unclear whether the agreement will be accepted. Trump has stated that any agreement must entail “zero enrichment.” Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, however, has stated that Tehran will not relinquish its right to produce nuclear fuel within the framework of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
Furthermore, the US has increased its military presence in the region: two aircraft carrier strike groups, fighters, bombers, and refueling aircraft have been deployed within striking distance of Iran. Possible strikes were discussed last week in the White House Situation Room with the participation of Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Kaine, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. The main topics of discussion were Iran's uranium enrichment level and its reserves of highly enriched uranium.
