President Trump has approved military plans against Iran but has not finalized any attacks pending diplomatic developments. He seeks a resolution on Iran’s nuclear program and remains watchful of the situation as Israel continues its airstrikes. The standoff indicates rising tensions in the Middle East amidst a strategic recalibration of U.S. involvement.
In a dramatic turn of events, President Trump approved plans for potential military action against Iran. This was confirmed by a senior intelligence source and a Defense Department official to CBS News. However, a final decision on whether to proceed with an attack or formally support Israel’s ongoing air campaign remains pending, highlighting ongoing uncertainties in U.S.-Iran relations.
Reportedly, Trump is holding back on any immediate strikes in anticipation of a change in Iran’s stance regarding its nuclear program. The Wall Street Journal was the first outlet to break this information. The White House has yet to respond to requests for clarification or comments regarding these developments.
Earlier on Tuesday, CBS News had indicated that Trump was contemplating a strike specifically on Fordo, a key uranium enrichment site hidden underground. Notably, Israel has refrained from attacking this facility since it began targeting Iranian nuclear sites just a week ago.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Trump stated, “I have not made a final decision on whether to strike Iran.” He elaborated, “I like to make the final decision one second before it’s due, because things change, especially with war.” The president emphasized, “I may do it. I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do.”
In a defiant response, Iran asserted that it “does NOT negotiate under duress,” promising to match any aggression with threats of its own. Recent reports from U.S. intelligence suggest that Iran has readied missiles and other equipment aimed at U.S. installations in the Middle East, particularly in light of the Israeli offensive.
Israel’s airstrikes on Iranian targets have escalated since Friday. While the Trump administration publicly claims it is not engaged in these attacks, sources indicate that U.S. assistance has been provided to Israel for intercepting Iranian missiles aimed at them.
In recent social media posts, Trump expressed his growing impatience with the situation, suggesting he hasn’t dismissed joining Israel’s military efforts. Additionally, he revealed that the U.S. is aware of the location of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, hinting at significant military options. However, he also said, “We are not going to take him out, at least not for now,” and previously opposed an Israeli plan to target Khamenei.
In summary, while President Trump has given the green light for planning attacks on Iran, he remains non-committal about implementing these plans as diplomatic options remain open. With Iran insisting it will not be coerced into negotiations and Israel actively targeting Iranian sites, tensions in the region are palpably high. The situation continues to evolve, reflecting the delicate balance of power and the uncertainties surrounding U.S. and Israeli military strategies.
Original Source: www.cbsnews.com
