Tensions escalate
President Trump faces a critical decision on Iran. Ten days ago, he warned the United States would protect Iranian protesters if authorities used violence. He said American forces were locked, loaded, and ready to act. At that moment, the crackdown had not fully erupted. Now, reports reveal the brutal extent of repression. The world watches for Trump’s next move.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said only the president knows his plans. She added the world can keep guessing. Uncertainty now dominates Washington. Observers wonder how long patience can continue.
Military options considered
Senior officials will brief Trump on Tuesday on possible courses of action. He told reporters on Air Force One that he has reviewed “very strong options.” Confidence from recent events in Venezuela may influence his thinking. He described the capture of Nicolas Maduro as one of the United States’ most successful operations. That outcome could make military action more tempting.
The U.S. can strike from a distance. Last summer, B-2 bombers flew long missions from Missouri to hit two major Iranian nuclear sites. Washington could repeat these strikes or target regime leaders responsible for the crackdown. Military planners likely maintain extensive target lists.
Covert strategies and limitations
Defense officials suggest responses could include covert measures. Cyber operations and psychological campaigns could disrupt Iranian command networks. One scenario seems unlikely: a Caracas-style operation. Iran differs from Venezuela. Even weakened, its regime remains resilient. Recent American and Israeli strikes did not break its control. Removing a single leader would not reshape the country.
Trump also recalls past failures. He recently referenced Jimmy Carter’s 1980 failed hostage rescue attempt. That mission ended in disaster when a helicopter collided with a transport aircraft in Iran’s desert. Eight American servicemen died. The failure humiliated the United States and contributed to Carter’s election loss.
Unclear objectives
Trump told reporters last week that Carter had no chance after that failure. Today, the central question is what the administration hopes to achieve in Iran. Analysts say Trump’s ultimate aim remains unclear.
Will Todman, a Middle East analyst, believes Trump wants to influence regime behavior rather than topple it. Todman doubts full regime change is the main objective, citing extreme risks. Possible goals include nuclear concessions, halting the crackdown, or securing limited reforms and sanctions relief.
Diplomatic pressures
Trump says Iranian officials have reached out to negotiate, aiming to maintain nuclear talks. Leavitt said public Iranian statements differ from private messages. She emphasized diplomacy as the first option. Officials told a major U.S. newspaper that Vice-President JD Vance supports talks.
Vance told reporters that Iran should negotiate seriously and clarify nuclear commitments. Ongoing violence complicates diplomacy. Talks risk appearing weak while repression continues. Todman warns that delays could demoralize protesters. Reports of killings persist despite internet blackouts. Trump may act before diplomacy runs its course. Some believe limited strikes could embolden protesters and warn the regime.
Risks of military action
Bilal Saab, a regional security expert, warns that even limited strikes carry risks. They could embolden protesters but also strengthen regime supporters. Symbolic or isolated strikes could trigger nationalist rallies.
Trump faces complex calculations. Iran has threatened retaliation. Despite previous damage, Iran retains a large missile arsenal. Regional allies remain active. Groups in Yemen and militias in Iraq continue to pose threats. The Axis of Resistance remains operational.
Calls for bold intervention
Some urge Trump to act decisively. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s last monarch, proposes leading a transition. He told an American broadcaster that Trump must decide soon. He argued early intervention could save lives and end the regime’s rule.
His message sounds simple. White House officials know the reality is far more complicated.
