US and Iran just weeks away from conflict, Axios says

According to the outlet, citing sources, a potential US military operation against Iran is being considered as a multi-week, large-scale campaign that would look more like a full-scale war rather than a limited strike.

The actions are expected to be joint, involving Israel, and would significantly surpass previous episodes of confrontation, with serious consequences for the Iranian regime and the entire Middle East region.

Such a development could impact the remaining years of the Trump presidency, while discussions in the US Congress and public space about potential intervention remain limited. The President himself is reportedly losing patience.

In early January, Trump was close to deciding on a strike against Iran. However, after missing the window of opportunity, the White House shifted to a dual strategy — combining negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program with an increase in military presence.

At the same time, prospects for a deal are considered unlikely. Presidential advisers Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff held talks in Geneva with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi.

Despite statements from both sides about some progress, key differences remain, and Washington has shown little optimism about overcoming them. Vice President JD Vance said the talks produced partial results, but Iran is not ready to agree to the key conditions of the US.

Meanwhile, the US has significantly increased its military presence in the region: aircraft carriers, warships, air defense systems, and additional aircraft have been deployed, while more than 150 military transport flights delivered weapons and ammunition.

Sources note that prolonged confrontation with Iran has dulled US public attention, although the risk of rapid and large-scale escalation is growing. The White House’s rhetoric and concentration of military forces make it difficult to step back without substantial concessions from Tehran regarding its nuclear program. According to sources, if diplomacy fails, a military scenario is being seriously considered in Washington.

Negotiations and the nuclear program

Meanwhile, according to media reports, Iranian representatives during the first round of talks with the US in Oman on February 6 proposed transferring their highly enriched uranium to Russia. The country is also ready to suspend its enrichment process for several years.

Iran also offered the US a large-scale economic deal as part of the nuclear negotiations. The US could gain access to the country’s oil and gas sector and aviation market if sanctions are lifted.

Despite all this, Washington is considering all possible scenarios regarding Iran. In the event of failed diplomatic efforts, the US does not rule out supporting Israeli military action.