US ready to launch large-scale strikes on Iran within 96 hours of Trump’s order - CNN
Photo: US President Donald Trump (Getty Images)
US forces in the Middle East are ready to conduct large-scale military operations against Iran. The order could be carried out within 96 hours of being issued, according to CNN.
Sources told the outlet that sufficient forces have already been deployed in the region for potential attacks. The scale of possible operations goes beyond simple measures to maintain order or preserve the status quo by striking radars, launchers, and other Iranian facilities that can be quickly restored.
It is noted that Iran is now more familiar with US tactics, making it harder for American forces to effectively destroy all potential targets.
"It will be a big effort," one source told CNN.
For this reason, Pentagon and US Central Command leadership are developing an extensive list of targets, including Iran’s energy infrastructure, military facilities, and nuclear sites.
Trump’s position and pressure from Israel
According to officials, US President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision but appears to be leaning toward large-scale action. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has pushed for new attacks against Iran.
"Netanyahu really wanted and tried to convince Trump for a joint attack in Iran before the elections, and Trump did not give a green light," a source in Israel’s security services told CNN.
US officials asked the Israeli prime minister to postpone the strikes until the US administration was ready for joint action.
Risks of retaliatory strikes
According to US intelligence, Iran and the Houthis are taking the possibility of renewed attacks by the US and Israel seriously. If new operations are launched, they could immediately retaliate with strikes against US personnel and facilities in the region and beyond.
Earlier, media reports said Donald Trump could soon launch a new phase of the war against Iran. Such action could take place before or after the midterm elections to Congress.
In addition, according to US intelligence, Iran may be preparing assassination attempts against American officials. In response, Washington has quietly begun evacuating some diplomats from Middle Eastern countries without public announcements.
