Trump Considers Limited Strike on Iran but Says He Prefers Diplomacy

US President Donald Trump said he would like to solve problems with Iran through diplomacy. But he also made it clear that he is ready to use military force if needed.

His comments come at a time when the United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East. Tensions between the two countries are rising again.

Trump Frustrated With Military Limits

According to a report by CBS News, Trump is frustrated with what his advisers call the “limits of military leverage” against Iran.

Advisers have told him that small or limited airstrikes may not stop Iran’s nuclear program. They also warned that even a short attack could lead to a bigger war in the region.

Still, reports say Trump is thinking about a limited strike to pressure Iran into accepting US demands on its nuclear activities. If Iran refuses, a larger military campaign could follow.

However, no final decision has been made.

Nuclear Dispute Remains the Main Issue

In his State of the Union speech, Trump said Iran is trying to rebuild its nuclear program after US strikes in June 2025. He claimed the earlier strikes destroyed Iran’s nuclear sites.

Some experts have questioned that claim. US intelligence and international nuclear inspectors did not find clear proof last year that Iran was building nuclear weapons.

Iran has always said its nuclear program is for peaceful use, such as energy production. But concerns remain because Iran has enriched uranium to high levels and limited inspections at its facilities.

Israel Warns About Strike Duration

An Israeli intelligence official told the Financial Times that even though the US has sent two aircraft carriers to the region, it may only be able to carry out four to five days of heavy airstrikes.

The official added that the US could continue lower-level strikes for about a week.

Israel is worried that limited US attacks could make Iran’s government stronger instead of weaker. Iran has warned that any US strike, even a small one, will be met with a strong response.

Talks to Continue in Geneva

Despite strong words from both sides, diplomatic talks are still planned.

US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are expected to meet Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Geneva. The talks are being helped by Oman.

According to The Guardian, Trump will decide what to do next after hearing from his negotiators. They will tell him whether Iran is serious about making a deal or just trying to delay.

Araghchi has said a deal is “within reach.” He repeated that Iran will never build a nuclear weapon but will not give up its right to peaceful nuclear technology.

Protests Inside Iran Add More Pressure

Iran is also facing protests at home. In recent days, students have held demonstrations at several universities. Some protests led to clashes with the Basij militia.

Iran’s government spokeswoman said students have the right to protest but must respect certain “red lines,” such as national symbols.

The protests started months ago because of economic problems and sanctions. Later, they became wider anti-government demonstrations. A US-based human rights group reported thousands of deaths, though the full number is not confirmed.

Trump has publicly supported the protesters and said help is on the way.

The situation remains tense.

Trump says he prefers diplomacy, but he has not ruled out military action. His final decision may depend on the upcoming talks in Geneva.

If the talks succeed, tensions could ease. If they fail, the risk of conflict may grow.

For now, both diplomacy and military pressure remain part of the US strategy toward Iran.

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