Frustrated Trump more seriously thinking of restarting combat operations in Iran, sources say

Trump Iran military action: President revives combat planning after nuclear talks stall

Muhammad Asghar | GlobalBeat

President Donald Trump has ordered renewed military planning for potential strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities, frustrated by Tehran’s refusal to accept his administration’s demands for a tougher nuclear deal, according to administration sources.

Trump has instructed Pentagon officials to present updated military options within 30 days, including targeted airstrikes on Iranian enrichment sites, according to three senior officials familiar with the discussions. The directive marks a significant escalation from sanctions-focused diplomacy.

The president’s shift toward military planning follows Iran’s rejection of U.S. demands to dismantle its centrifuge program. Iran insists its nuclear activities remain peaceful, but Israeli intelligence has warned Tehran could produce weapons-grade uranium within months. Trump told advisers “the military option needs to be real and ready” during national security meetings this week.

White House national security adviser Mike Waltz confirmed the administration is reviewing “all available tools” against Iran. “The president’s patience is not unlimited,” Waltz told reporters. “Iran needs to understand there are consequences for continued defiance.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth briefed Trump on potential air strikes against Iran’s Natanz and Fordow facilities. The plans include limited strikes that could set back Iran’s nuclear program by 2-3 years, according to defense officials who requested anonymity to discuss classified briefings.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned any U.S. attack would trigger “immediate and overwhelming” retaliation. “We have made clear that any aggression against Iran will face our full military response,” Araghchi said in a televised address. Iran controls the Strait of Hormuz through which 20% of global oil supplies pass.

The Revolutionary Guard has deployed additional anti-aircraft systems around key facilities and put naval forces on heightened alert. Iran also announced it now enriches uranium to 60% purity, near weapons-grade levels.

Israeli officials have privately encouraged Trump to act before Iran crosses the nuclear threshold. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed “military coordination” with Trump by phone, according to Israeli officials. Netanyahu told cabinet members Israel would “support our American allies if they choose to act.”

European allies urged maximum restraint. British Foreign Secretary David Lammy warned renewed conflict could destabilize the entire region. “We understand American concerns but believe diplomacy still offers the best path forward,” Lammy said. France and Germany joined calls for de-escalation.

Oil prices jumped 8% following news of possible strikes. Brent crude rose to $82 per barrel, its highest level since October. Energy analysts warned actual conflict could push prices above $100, adding inflationary pressure to the global economy.

The Pentagon fears any attack could trigger Iranian retaliation against U.S. bases in Syria and Iraq. Iran-backed militias have launched over 120 attacks on American forces since October. Defense officials estimate Iran has 2,000 ballistic missiles capable of reaching regional targets.

Background

Trump withdrew from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018, reimposing harsh sanctions that crippled Iran’s economy. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action had limited Iran’s nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief. Trump’s administration pursued a “maximum pressure” campaign instead.

Iran began exceeding nuclear limits in 2019, enriching uranium beyond deal caps while maintaining it sought only civilian nuclear power. The International Atomic Energy Agency reported Iran now possesses 8 tons of enriched uranium, enough for multiple nuclear weapons if further processed.

What’s Next

The Pentagon must present updated military options to Trump by May 28. Congress will receive classified briefings next week. European diplomats have scheduled emergency meetings to discuss alternatives to military action. Iran has summoned allies including Russia and China for security consultations in Tehran.

Any military action could reshape Middle Eastern geopolitics for decades. The region remains on edge as Arab states quietly prepare for potential Iranian retaliation. Qatar and Kuwait have begun evacuating non-essential personnel from American bases, while Saudi Arabia has put air defenses on highest alert.