U.S. Prepares for New Military Strikes Against Iran Amid Diplomacy Efforts

Washington prepares for potential military strikes against Iran as diplomacy continues. No final decision has been made yet.

President Trump will return to the White House instead of attending his son Donald Trump Jr.’s wedding this weekend due to “circumstances pertaining to Government.”

Some U.S. military and intelligence officials have canceled Memorial Day plans, updating recall rosters for troops overseas rotating out of theater.

Defense and intelligence officials are preparing for reduced American military presence in the region amid concerns about possible Iranian retaliation.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly stated that President Trump has made it clear Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon or keep enriched uranium. The Pentagon is ready to execute any decision the Commander-in-Chief makes.

Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps warned of “crushing blows” if further strikes occur, while Tehran reviews the latest U.S. proposal for an agreement amid soaring fuel prices and energy market turmoil.

President Trump said he wants Iran to make a deal quickly but would consider military strikes if rejected. A response is expected via Pakistan, which has been acting as an intermediary.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicated that progress had been made in negotiations but more work remains. He also referenced “Plan B” for reopening the Strait of Hormuz through military force if Iran does not agree to do so itself.

House Republicans abandoned efforts to limit President Trump’s authority to conduct military operations against Iran, concluding they lacked the votes needed to stop the resolution from advancing.