The United States is reportedly prepared to launch a military strike against Iran as early as this weekend, but President Donald Trump has not made a final decision.
According to reporting by CNN and CBS News, senior officials have briefed the White House that military forces are ready if authorization is given. Sources cited by both outlets say Trump remains undecided.
“He is spending a lot of time thinking about this,” one source told CNN.
Major US Military Buildup in the Region
The US has significantly increased its military presence in the Middle East. Officials say 13 US warships are currently operating in the region, including the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln.
The USS Gerald R. Ford is also en route to the Middle East. According to the US Navy, the Ford is the largest aircraft carrier in the world.
Deploying two aircraft carriers to the region is rare and signals heightened readiness. Fighter jets including F 22 Raptors and F 15 aircraft, along with refueling tankers and surveillance planes, are also reported to be active in the area.
Nuclear Talks Remain Fragile
Tensions center largely on Iran’s nuclear program. Trump withdrew the United States from the 2015 nuclear agreement in 2018, according to records from the US Department of State.
Recent talks between US and Iranian officials in Geneva reportedly produced limited progress. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said there is “a little bit of progress,” but acknowledged both sides remain far apart on key issues.
Trump has warned that Iran must agree to new terms or face consequences.
Regional and Political Pressures
Several factors are shaping the decision. Analysts point to Israeli coordination with Washington, oil market stability, and Iran’s internal unrest.
Large protests inside Iran in recent years have challenged the government led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The US has previously criticized Tehran’s response to demonstrations.
Energy markets are also closely watching developments. Oil prices often react sharply to instability in the Gulf region.
What Happens Next
It remains unclear whether Trump will authorize military action. Any strike could escalate tensions across the Middle East.
US officials have not publicly confirmed operational details. The Pentagon has not announced a final decision.
For now, military forces appear positioned and ready. The question is whether the president will give the order.