US President Donald Trump has approved plans for American military strikes against Iran, but he is holding off on issuing a final order for the attacks. He is reportedly waiting to see if Iran will ultimately abandon its nuclear program.
This information was reported on Thursday (June 19) by the influential US media outlet The Wall Street Journal, citing close sources.
The newspaper states that President Trump informed his top advisors on Tuesday night that he had greenlit military strike plans against Iran but would not issue the final attack order immediately. He is waiting to observe whether Iran ultimately abandons its nuclear program.
Among the key targets in these plans is Iran's heavily fortified Fordow uranium enrichment plant. This facility is situated deep underground, and military analysts suggest it is nearly impossible to destroy with conventional weapons, requiring only the most powerful bombs to strike it.
Earlier, speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump stated, "I can attack (Iran), or I may not." He reiterated his demand for Iran's "unconditional surrender," adding, "The next week is going to be very important—perhaps in less than a week."
In response, Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei previously declared that "Iran will never surrender" and warned that any US military intervention would result in "irreparable damage."
Amidst this tension, the United States has increased its military presence in the Middle East over the past few days. A third US Navy destroyer has entered the Eastern Mediterranean, and a second aircraft carrier strike group is being deployed towards the Arabian Sea.
The US Department of Defense (Pentagon) has described these preparations as "defensive," but noted they would put US forces in a better position should Trump decide to join an attack against Iran, similar to Israel's stance.
This escalation could also be a strategy to increase pressure on Iran, compelling Tehran to yield on its nuclear program or make concessions.
This news report covers the latest developments regarding potential US military action against Iran.
