Daijiworld Media Network – Washington

Washington, Feb 14: The United States military is preparing for the possibility of extended operations against Iran that could last weeks if President Donald Trump authorises an attack, according to two US officials familiar with the planning.

The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, indicated that the preparations point to the potential for a far more serious confrontation between Washington and Tehran than previously seen.

The development comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts. US and Iranian representatives met in Oman last week in an attempt to ease tensions over Tehran’s nuclear programme. The talks followed a visible build-up of American military assets in the region, fuelling concerns of fresh conflict.

US defence officials have confirmed that the Pentagon is deploying an additional aircraft carrier to the Middle East, along with thousands of troops, fighter jets and guided-missile destroyers. The expanded presence is aimed at enhancing both strike capability and defensive readiness against possible retaliation.

While the US has stationed two aircraft carriers in the region in the past, including during last year’s strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities, current planning reportedly envisions the possibility of sustained engagement rather than a limited, one-off action.

Addressing American service members in North Carolina, President Trump acknowledged the difficulties in negotiations with Tehran. “It’s been difficult to make a deal,” he said, adding that “sometimes you have to have fear” to resolve the situation.

White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said that “all options” remain on the table with regard to Iran and that the President would make the final decision based on national security interests. The Pentagon declined to comment on operational specifics.

Last year’s “Midnight Hammer” operation in June involved stealth bombers striking Iranian nuclear sites, followed by a limited retaliatory attack by Tehran on a US base in Qatar. That exchange stopped short of broader escalation.

However, current preparations suggest the possibility of a campaign extending over weeks rather than hours, marking a potential shift in the scale and intensity of hostilities between the two countries.