Amid intensifying Middle East tensions, U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly approved plans to strike Iran but has yet to make a final decision to initiate military action, according to CBS News. The proposed target is said to be the Fordo uranium enrichment facility, an underground site central to Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
The developments come after Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rebuffed Trump’s demand for unconditional surrender. In a televised address, Khamenei warned that any U.S. military intervention would be met with significant resistance, asserting, “The Iranian nation will not surrender.”
While Trump declined to clarify his plans, he responded to the rejection with a dismissive “good luck,” emphasizing that his next move remains uncertain. “I may do it, I may not do it,” he stated, keeping the international community on edge.
Simultaneously, Israel has intensified its military campaign against Iran, targeting missile sites and nuclear infrastructure. In response, Iran launched hypersonic missiles, escalating the already volatile situation. Though damage in Israel was limited, the attacks have stirred panic, with residents in Tehran jamming roads in search of safer ground.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed the ongoing military operations, declaring, “We control the skies over Tehran,” and reaffirmed the goal of neutralizing Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
Meanwhile, the U.S. is reinforcing its military presence in the Gulf region. The USS Nimitz is en route to join the USS Carl Vinson, alongside increased deployment of refueling aircraft and stealth fighters like the F-22 and F-35. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth told a Senate committee that the Pentagon is fully prepared to execute Trump’s orders.
Diplomatic efforts are also underway. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to meet UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy in Washington, with Iran expected to dominate discussions.
The human cost of the conflict is mounting. Israeli airstrikes have reportedly killed 585 people in Iran, including 239 civilians. In retaliation, Iran has launched over 400 missiles into Israel, resulting in 24 civilian deaths.
As the rhetoric intensifies and military preparations continue, the region braces for what could become a wider and more destructive confrontation.
