Washington – The White House is reportedly weighing substantially escalated military options against Iran, according to U.S. officials, as tensions remain high following recent crackdowns on protesters and concerns over TehranS nuclear program. Discussions now include proposals for direct strikes within Iran, a departure from strategies considered just weeks prior. The potential for military action arrives as the Biden administration continues efforts to revive the 2015 nuclear deal, a diplomatic path complicated by iran’s regional activities and domestic policies.
President Donald Trump is considering a more aggressive military approach toward Iran than previously planned, according to reports. The development comes amid heightened tensions in the region and raises concerns about a potential escalation of conflict.
Multiple U.S. officials have stated that Trump recently reviewed a range of expanded military options targeting Iran’s nuclear and missile facilities. Some proposals also aim to weaken the position of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
These options reportedly go beyond proposals Trump considered two weeks ago in response to a violent crackdown on protesters by Iranian authorities. Officials indicated that the new plans include the possibility of a direct military strike within Iran.
Among the most dangerous options being discussed is a clandestine operation involving U.S. special forces to destroy or severely damage remaining Iranian nuclear facilities that were not eliminated in a previous attack last June.
Another proposal involves targeting military and leadership figures within Iran in an attempt to create instability and potentially pave the way for the removal of Ayatollah Khamenei by Iranian security forces. However, officials acknowledge uncertainty about who would succeed Khamenei and whether a new leader would be open to negotiations with the United States.
The possibility of re-targeting Iran’s ballistic missile program is also under consideration, a move strongly advocated by Israel.
According to sources close to the President, these options are still being refined, and a final decision on the overall objective of any military action has not yet been reached. Trump has not approved any specific options presented by the Department of Defense, and remains open to a diplomatic solution. He has reportedly been considering whether regime change in Iran is a viable option.
The announcement could influence future diplomatic talks and further complicate the already fragile geopolitical landscape in the Middle East. While Trump is exploring military options, he has not yet made a final decision.
김예린(yey@yna.co.kr)
당신이 담은 순간이 뉴스입니다!
ⓒ연합뉴스TV, 무단 전재-재배포, AI 학습 및 활용 금지
