US President Donald Trump is considering a phased military strategy against Iran, beginning with a limited targeted strike that could be followed by a broader attack if diplomatic efforts fail, according to a report by The New York Times.
The newspaper said Trump has told advisers that if diplomacy — or a potential precision U.S. strike — does not persuade Tehran to abandon its nuclear programme, he would consider a wider military campaign in the coming months aimed at forcing Iran’s leadership to step aside, citing officials familiar with internal deliberations.
The report comes as U.S. and Iranian negotiators are scheduled to meet in Geneva on Thursday in what the newspaper described as a last-ditch diplomatic effort to avoid military confrontation. However, Trump is said to be weighing military options should the talks fail.
According to the report, while no final decision has been made, advisers indicated the U.S. president is inclined toward launching a pre-emptive strike in the coming days to pressure Iranian leaders into agreeing to give up any capability to produce a nuclear weapon.
Potential targets under review reportedly include headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, Iranian nuclear facilities, and elements of the country’s ballistic missile programme.
Trump has also told aides that if initial measures fail to achieve the desired outcome, he would keep the option open for a broader military operation later this year aimed at toppling Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, the report added.
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