Washington (Horn Post) – The United States military is preparing for the possibility of sustained military operations against Iran that could last several weeks if Donald Trump orders an attack, according to U.S. officials familiar with the planning. The developments come amid heightened diplomatic and military activity in the region and ongoing indirect negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.
Two senior U.S. officials, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the planning, told international news agency Reuters that the Pentagon and other U.S. military commands are drawing up contingency plans for operations that could be more extensive than previous military actions involving the two countries.
Officials said the planning envisions missions that could include air, naval, and other strike capabilities sustained over an extended period — potentially weeks — if an assault is authorized.
Analysts say such actions would likely target a wider range of Iranian government and security infrastructure.
The potential for prolonged operations represents a significant escalation compared with earlier military strikes, including limited U.S. attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities in 2025. U.S. military leaders and national security officials have warned that such a campaign would carry heightened risks, including the likelihood of Iranian retaliation against U.S. forces and installations across the Middle East.
The renewed focus on military readiness comes as U.S. diplomats, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, engage in talks with Iranian counterparts in Geneva, with Oman acting as a mediator. Diplomacy remains active even as military assets are positioned in the region.
Market reactions have mirrored rising geopolitical concerns. Gulf stock indexes experienced declines amid investor caution over the potential for a broader U.S.–Iran conflict, highlighting economic unease linked to heightened military risk in the region.
Meanwhile, Israeli leaders, including Benjamin Netanyahu, have stressed the importance of any negotiation or agreement with Iran addressing broader security concerns, especially related to nuclear infrastructure and regional stability.
Despite rising military preparations, U.S. officials publicly maintain that diplomacy is still an option, and senior policymakers repeatedly state that all options remain on the table, including non-military solutions. Critics caution that any move toward prolonged combat could spark a broader regional conflict with widespread consequences.
U.S. Military Preparing for Possible Weeks-Long Operations Against Iran, Officials Say
Prepared by:
Horn post staff reporter
