Washington — Top national security officials have revealed that President Trump is considering potential military strikes on Iran as early as Saturday. However, the timeline for any action remains uncertain and could extend beyond the weekend, according to confidential discussions with CBS News.
Sources close to the decision-making process indicate there are significant concerns about escalating tensions, coupled with the unpredictable consequences of a U.S. move against Iran. The Pentagon is preparing by shifting personnel—primarily from Middle Eastern regions to Europe or back to the United States—in anticipation of potential actions or retaliations by Iran if the U.S. proceeds.
It’s standard practice for the military to make these preparations, and it does not necessarily signify an imminent attack on Iran, according to one source. Additionally, Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to visit Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in about two weeks to continue discussions on this critical matter.
Despite ongoing negotiations, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that diplomacy remains the administration’s first option, noting a successful operation conducted in June targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities. She also mentioned concerns over Iranian retaliation against U.S. warships, specifically referring to the deployment of the USS Gerald Ford aircraft carrier group in the region.
The Trump administration has observed some progress in recent mediated talks between American and Iranian negotiators regarding the country’s nuclear program, but significant gaps remain on key issues. Leavitt suggested that follow-up consultations may occur within a few weeks as both sides continue to deliberate and present new information.
Sources also disclosed that President Trump had previously expressed support for Israeli military action against Iran’s ballistic missile program in December, underlining the delicate nature of negotiations between Washington and Tehran. Furthermore, Iranian authorities issued warnings to pilots to avoid certain regions due to upcoming rocket launches, adding layers of complexity to this already tense situation.
The fluidity of these discussions underscores the precarious balance the administration must maintain while grappling with escalating tensions on multiple fronts. As details continue to emerge, the geopolitical landscape in the region remains volatile and uncertain.