The United States has prepared advanced military options against Iran that could include targeted strikes on senior Iranian leaders and even discussions around regime change, according to a Reuters report citing U.S. officials.
The report said American military planning has reached an advanced stage, with proposals that may focus on specific individuals within Iran’s leadership if authorised by US President Donald Trump. Officials indicated the options are part of contingency planning should diplomatic efforts over Iran’s nuclear programme fail.
While Trump has recently suggested that regime change in Iran could be desirable, no final decision on military action has been announced. Most of the US combat capability currently positioned in the Middle East consists of naval and air assets, officials said.
The developments have triggered debate within Washington’s policy circles. Some advisers are reportedly urging restraint, whereas others — including Senator Lindsey Graham — have advocated a tougher stance toward Tehran.
Iran, meanwhile, has warned it would respond “decisively” to any American attack and could target US military bases in the region, raising fears of a wider conflict across the Middle East.
Despite the heightened rhetoric and military planning, negotiations over Iran’s nuclear programme remain ongoing. US officials suggested that the military signalling may be intended partly to increase pressure on Tehran rather than indicate an imminent strike.
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