US Military Prepares for Potential Iran Strikes as Trump Weighs Options

The United States military is preparing for potential strikes on Iran, with reports suggesting that an attack could come as early as this weekend. According to multiple sources, the military is ready to carry out the operation, but President Donald Trump has yet to make a final decision on whether to proceed.

The move comes as the White House continues to pressure Iran to negotiate a new deal on its nuclear program. Trump has repeatedly demanded that Iran cease its nuclear activities, and has warned that he intends to use force if no agreement is reached. The President's administration has been engaged in a maximum pressure campaign against Iran, imposing severe economic sanctions and taking a hardline stance on the country's nuclear ambitions.

Despite the tensions, Trump has yet to make a final decision on whether to carry out strikes. According to reports, the President is still weighing his options and has not yet given the green light for military action. The White House has urged Iran to "make a deal" with Trump, but it remains unclear what concessions the administration is seeking.

The potential for military action against Iran has been building for months. In May, the US deployed an aircraft carrier strike group to the Middle East, citing concerns about Iranian aggression. The move was seen as a clear warning to Iran, and was followed by a series of incidents involving Iranian forces and US military assets in the region.

In June, Iran shot down a US drone, claiming it had entered Iranian airspace. The incident sparked a fierce response from the US, with Trump tweeting that the country was "cocked and loaded" to strike back. However, the President ultimately decided against military action, citing concerns about the potential loss of life.

The US has also been engaged in a diplomatic effort to build a coalition of allies to counter Iranian influence in the region. The administration has been working closely with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, among others, to build a united front against Iran.

However, the effort has been complicated by Trump's decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), the landmark nuclear deal signed by the Obama administration in 2015. The move was widely criticized by European allies, who argued that it would embolden Iran and undermine regional stability.

As tensions between the US and Iran continue to escalate, the international community is holding its breath. The United Nations has urged restraint, with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres calling for calm and diplomacy. The European Union has also expressed concerns, with EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini warning that a military conflict would have "devastating consequences" for the region.

The situation remains fluid, and it remains unclear what the coming days will bring. One thing is certain, however: the stakes are high, and the consequences of military action could be severe. As the US military prepares for potential strikes, the world waits with bated breath for Trump's next move.

Sources:
* The Guardian: "Trump says US 'cocked and loaded' to strike Iran but calls off attack at last minute"
* Reuters: "U.S. deploying carrier strike group to Middle East: Bolton"
* Al Jazeera: "Iran-US tensions: All the latest updates"