Trump leaning towards initial strike to force Iranian submission

During the initial strikes, the US could bomb the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps headquarters, ballistic missile sites, and nuclear facilities.

By World Israel News Staff

The Trump administration is mulling a two-stage approach to military intervention in Iran, The New York Times has reported, ramping up pressure on the regime if it refuses to compromise in nuclear talks.

Citing multiple sources who were briefed on deliberations inside the administration, the report said that President Donald Trump has told his advisers that the US could carry out a limited air campaign initially against Iran in order to signal American resolve, adding that should Iran continue to refuse American demands, he will pursue a broader campaign aimed at achieving regime change.

The US and Iran have agreed to meet for a third round of nuclear talks in Geneva on Thursday, though it appears the summit is the last attempt at a diplomatic solution before the US strikes Iran.

The US reportedly informed Iran on Sunday that the White House is willing to hold talks as early as Friday, on the condition that Tehran pen a comprehensive proposal for a nuclear deal to serve as the basis for talks.

Advisers say Trump has not made a final decision on military action but added that he is already leaning toward a limited initial attack in the coming days.

This would serve as a final warning to Iran and demonstrate American willingness to use force if the Islamic Republic fails to accept the administration’s red lines, including a total cessation of uranium enrichment.

During the initial strikes, the US could bomb the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps headquarters, ballistic missile sites, and nuclear facilities.

However, if Iran fails to reach an agreement with the US even after the strikes, Trump is expected to push for a far larger campaign later this year with the goal of removing Ayatollah Ali Khamenei from power.