The United States military is preparing for the possibility of weeks-long operations against Iran if President Donald Trump orders an attack.
The preparations signal the potential for a more serious and sustained conflict between the two countries than seen in recent years.
The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the planning, said the scale of preparation raises the stakes for ongoing diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran.
U.S. and Iranian diplomats held talks in Oman last week aimed at reviving negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program, following a U.S. military buildup in the region.
U.S. officials said on Friday that the Pentagon was sending an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, along with thousands of troops, fighter aircraft, guided missile destroyers, and other military assets capable of offensive and defensive operations. Trump told U.S. troops at a base in North Carolina that reaching a deal with Iran had been difficult, adding that fear can sometimes be necessary to resolve situations.
White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said Trump has all options on the table regarding Iran and considers a range of views before making decisions based on national security. The Pentagon declined to comment.
Unlike last year’s limited strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, including the one-off Midnight Hammer operation, officials said the current planning is more complex. In a sustained campaign, U.S. forces could target Iranian state and security facilities beyond nuclear infrastructure. Officials said Washington expects Iranian retaliation, raising the risk of prolonged exchanges and a wider regional conflict.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have warned they would retaliate against U.S. bases across the Middle East if Iranian territory is attacked. Iran has said it is willing to discuss limits on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, but will not link the issue to its missile program.