Despite diplomatic efforts, the U.S. Military Prepares for Extended Operations Against Iran

The Greek Courier
Source: The Globe and Mail

The U.S. military is preparing for the possibility of sustained operations against Iran, if President Donald Trump decides to initiate an attack, according to two U.S. officials who spoke to Reuters on the condition of anonymity. This scenario could significantly escalate tensions between the two nations.

This planning occurs alongside ongoing diplomatic efforts, with U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner set to hold negotiations with Iran in Geneva. Omani representatives will mediate these discussions. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that while Trump aims to strike a deal with Tehran, achieving this goal is proving to be quite challenging.

In preparation for potential military action, Trump has increased the U.S. military presence in the region. Recently, the Pentagon announced that an additional aircraft carrier would join the existing forces, along with thousands of troops, fighter aircraft, and guided-missile destroyers, enhancing capabilities for both offensive operations and defense.

Speaking at a military event in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, Trump expressed his belief that a change in Iran's government "seems like that would be the best thing that could happen." Although he did not specify who could replace the current regime, he alluded to potential alternatives.

Historically, Trump has been hesitant to deploy ground troops in Iran, favoring air and naval strikes, as indicated by his previous comments against the use of ground forces. His administration demonstrated this strategy with operations in Venezuela, where special operations forces were deployed to target the government.

When asked about plans for possible military operations, White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated, "President Trump has all options on the table with regard to Iran," emphasizing that the president considers various perspectives before making final decisions related to national security.

The Pentagon declined to comment on the preparations.

Previously, the U.S. had sent two aircraft carriers to the region, conducting strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities. However, those operations were more limited in scope compared to the potential extended campaign being discussed now, which could encompass a wider range of Iranian state and security infrastructure.

Experts warn that an extensive operation poses heightened risks to U.S. forces due to Iran's robust missile capabilities, which could lead to retaliatory strikes and the potential for broader regional conflict.

Trump has often threatened military action in response to Iran's nuclear ambitions and suppression of dissent, warning that failure to resolve these issues diplomatically could result in "very traumatic" consequences. The Revolutionary Guard has similarly indicated that any strikes on Iranian soil would prompt retaliation against U.S. military bases in the region.

U.S. military installations are positioned throughout the Middle East, including in Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently emphasized the importance of including key elements vital to Israel in any potential agreement with Iran during discussions with Trump in Washington. Meanwhile, Iran has expressed a willingness to negotiate limits on its nuclear program in exchange for lifting sanctions, but it has excluded discussions regarding its missile capabilities.

On the opposition front, Reza Pahlavi, a prominent Iranian figure, suggested that U.S. military intervention could ultimately save lives. He urged Washington not to delay negotiations with Iran's leadership regarding the nuclear deal and expressed hope that an attack could catalyze the regime's fall, allowing the Iranian populace to re-emerge and rally for change.