Iran News: US Military Prepared for Potential Strike Amidst Diplomatic Efforts
The United States military is reportedly prepared for a potential strike against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has not yet made a final decision. Sources familiar with the matter, speaking to CNN, reveal a complex situation marked by both military readiness and ongoing diplomatic efforts.
Military Buildup and Presidential Deliberation
The White House has been briefed on the military’s readiness following a significant increase in air and naval assets deployed to the Middle East in recent days. However, sources indicate that President Trump has been privately considering both sides of the issue, seeking counsel from advisors and allies on the best course of action. He has reportedly polled opinions on the potential consequences of military intervention.
A Wednesday meeting of top national security officials in the White House Situation Room focused on the escalating situation in Iran. President Trump also received updates from special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner regarding indirect talks with Iranian representatives that took place the previous day. The timing of a potential decision remains uncertain.
Diplomatic Channels Remain Open
Despite the military preparations, diplomatic channels remain open. Iranian and US negotiators engaged in indirect talks in Geneva on Tuesday, exchanging notes for three and a half hours. While no clear resolution emerged, Iran’s top negotiator stated that both sides had agreed on a “set of guiding principles.” A US official acknowledged the progress but emphasized that “there are still a lot of details to discuss.”
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Iran is expected to provide further details on its negotiating position in the coming weeks, but declined to comment on whether military action would be postponed during that period. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to travel to Israel on February 28 to brief Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the status of the Iran talks.
Military Action Remains an Option
Leavitt reiterated that while diplomacy is President Trump’s preferred approach, military action remains on the table. She highlighted the numerous arguments supporting a strike against Iran, emphasizing that the President is relying heavily on the advice of his national security team. This ambiguity has heightened fears of potential military conflict.
Escalating Tensions and Preparations
The USS Gerald Ford, the most advanced aircraft carrier in the US Navy, is potentially en route to the region and could arrive this weekend. Additionally, US Air Force assets stationed in the United Kingdom, including refueling tankers and fighter jets, are being repositioned closer to the Middle East. These movements underscore the seriousness of the situation.
Meanwhile, Iran is reportedly fortifying its nuclear facilities, using concrete and soil to bury key sites in response to the increasing US military pressure. New satellite imagery and analysis from the Institute for Science and International Security confirm these efforts.
Factors Influencing Timing
Several calendar events could influence the timing of any potential military action. The conclusion of the Winter Olympics on Sunday has been cited by some European officials as a potential deterrent. The start of Ramadan on Wednesday also raises concerns, as an attack during the Muslim holy month could be perceived as disrespectful by US allies in the Middle East. President Trump’s State of the Union address on Tuesday may also play a role, potentially serving as a platform to outline his administration’s policy towards Iran.
Lack of Public and Congressional Support
President Trump has yet to fully articulate his objectives for a potential military operation in Iran or garner significant public or congressional support for such action. He has expressed a desire for regime change and preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, but has not provided specific details on how these goals would be achieved through military intervention.
This story has been updated with additional reporting.
CNN’s Jennifer Hansler and Mohammed Tawfeeq contributed to this report. © 2026 Cable News Network. A Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All Rights Reserved. CNN Sans ™ & © 2016 Cable News Network.
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