US President Donald Trump is reportedly leaning toward military action to increase pressure on Iran, according to claims made by American news website Axios. Reports said Trump will meet his national security team to discuss future strategy regarding the ongoing tensions with Iran.
According to US officials cited by Axios, military options returned to the table after nuclear negotiations stalled on Sunday. Officials said the Trump administration still prefers a diplomatic agreement to end the conflict. However, concerns have increased after Iran reportedly rejected US demands and refused to offer major concessions on its nuclear program.
The report stated that several senior officials are expected to attend the meeting. These include Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe, White House envoy Steve Witkoff, and General Dan Caine.
Two US officials told Axios that Trump appears interested in some form of military action to force Iran into making nuclear concessions. One option reportedly under consideration involves restoring “Project Freedom,” under which the US Navy previously guided ships through the Strait of Hormuz to ensure maritime security.
Also Read: Trump Calls National Security Meeting to Discuss Possible Iran Action
Another option reportedly includes restarting military strikes against Iran. According to the report, the US military may target up to 25 percent of previously identified Iranian sites that have not yet been attacked. Meanwhile, Israeli officials are reportedly urging Trump to authorize a special forces operation to seize Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.
However, the report added that Trump remains hesitant because of the high risks associated with such an operation. US officials also believe Trump’s expected visit to China later this week could influence final decisions regarding Iran. Analysts warn that Trump’s growing inclination toward military action may further increase tensions across the Middle East.