The United States military is ready to strike Iran as early as this weekend. However, President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision.
Sources familiar with the matter say the White House has been informed that US forces are prepared if the president gives the order. Still, Trump is taking time to think carefully before making any move.
One source said the president is “spending a lot of time thinking about this.”
White House Holds Key Meetings
Top national security officials met in the White House Situation Room on Wednesday to discuss the situation with Iran.
Trump has reportedly discussed both sides of the issue. He has asked advisers and close allies for their views. At this point, it is still not clear if he will decide before the weekend.
The first report about US readiness came from CBS News.
Talks With Iran Still Ongoing
Even though military forces are ready, diplomatic talks are still happening.
US and Iranian officials held indirect talks in Geneva earlier this week. The discussions lasted more than three hours. Both sides exchanged written messages.
Iran’s main negotiator said they agreed on some “guiding principles.” But a US official said many details still need to be worked out.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomacy is always the president’s first choice. However, she also made it clear that military action remains an option.
She refused to give any deadline for a decision.
Large US Military Buildup in the Middle East
The US has increased its military presence in the Middle East in recent days.
At present, the US has 13 warships in the region. This includes one aircraft carrier, nine destroyers, and three smaller combat ships.
The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln is already operating there.
Another aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, is also on its way to the Middle East. It is one of the most advanced carriers in the US Navy. It could arrive as early as this weekend.
It is not common for two US aircraft carriers to be in the region at the same time.
In addition, the US has moved fighter jets and refueling aircraft closer to the Middle East. Some of these aircraft were previously based in the United Kingdom.
Israel Watching the Situation
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to travel to Israel soon. He will meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss the situation and the ongoing talks with Iran.
Reports say the US and Israel are in close contact as tensions rise.
Why Tensions Are High
The main issue between the US and Iran is the nuclear deal. Trump pulled the US out of the earlier agreement during his first term. He has said he wants a new and stronger deal.
Recent talks showed small progress, but both sides are still far apart on major issues.
At the same time, Iran has faced protests at home. Some experts believe this has weakened the government. There are also concerns about how oil prices could react if fighting begins.
No Final Call Yet
Despite strong military preparations, there is no final order for a strike.
The White House says diplomacy is still possible. But military options remain ready.
For now, the world is waiting to see what President Trump decides in the coming days.
Read previous talks: Iran Says It Is Ready for Nuclear Talks, But Wants Sanctions Relief
Megan Davies is a reporter for White Pine Tribune. After graduating from the University of Toronto, Megan got an internship at the CBC News and worked as a reporter and editor. Megan has also worked as a reporter for Global Toronto. Megan covers economy and community events for White Pine Tribune.
