WASHINGTON: The United States has developed advanced military plans targeting Iran, including options to strike individual Iranian leaders and pursue regime change if ordered by President Donald Trump officials told Reuters.
Senior US officials, speaking on condition of anonymity said the preparations are part of a broader contingency strategy should diplomatic efforts fail. Military planners have mapped out sustained weeks long operations that could hit Iranian security facilities and nuclear infrastructure although specific target details were not disclosed.
Trump has publicly suggested that changing Iran’s government “seems like… the best thing that could happen” but has also stressed his openness to diplomacy. Recently, he indicated he is considering a limited strike to pressure Tehran into nuclear negotiations, giving Iran roughly 10/15 days to reach a deal before potential action.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said Tehran hopes to present a counterproposal to avoid conflict but differences remain.
Meanwhile Russia has warned the US against any strike saying it could escalate tensions and undermine diplomatic efforts.
Analysts warn that any US action risks Iranian retaliation against American bases and a wider regional escalation even as negotiations continue against a backdrop of rising global energy prices.
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