U.S. President Donald Trump has formally approved a military strike plan targeting Iran’s nuclear infrastructure but is deliberately delaying the final execution order, pending Tehran’s response to a U.S. diplomatic overture, The Wall Street Journal reported. Citing senior administration officials, the report reveals that President Trump has signed off on a detailed plan for limited strikes, possibly aimed at the Fordow uranium enrichment facility an underground site regarded as one of Iran’s most secure and hardened installations. The U.S. military believes only precision bunker-busting munitions can penetrate its deep layers of protection.
Trump reportedly conveyed his decision to top advisers during a high-level meeting on Tuesday night, instructing them to remain on standby. However, he emphasized that the final strike order would be contingent upon Iran’s willingness to dismantle its nuclear program in line with U.S. demands.
“I could do it, and maybe I won’t,” the President remarked when pressed by reporters, suggesting that the coming days perhaps even less than a week could be decisive. The statement underscores Washington’s calibrated approach: projecting force while leaving room for de-escalation through diplomacy.
The Trump administration has reiterated its position that Tehran must accept a “complete and unconditional rollback” of its nuclear activities, as a prerequisite for averting military conflict. The diplomatic offer reportedly includes incentives, but sources stress that the window for a peaceful resolution is narrowing.
Supreme Leader Khamenei Warns of ‘Irreparable Consequences’
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei swiftly responded to the developments, warning that “Iran will never surrender,” and asserting that any U.S. military intervention would trigger “irreparable consequences.” His comments signal Tehran’s firm refusal to bow to mounting Western pressure, even amid escalating regional instability.
The situation unfolds against the backdrop of a substantial U.S. military buildup in the Middle East. While the Pentagon insists the deployment is defensive, military analysts argue the posture could facilitate joint operations with Israel or increase coercive leverage over Tehran.
Mounting Casualties in Iran-Israel Escalation
Meanwhile, the Iran-Israel conflict continues to intensify. Reports indicate that Iranian casualties have now exceeded 450, while retaliatory Iranian strikes have killed at least 24 people inside Israel. The spiraling violence underscores the volatile context in which Washington’s military calculus is evolving.
As the world watches closely, the next move rests with Tehran. A diplomatic breakthrough may yet avert confrontation but time is running out.
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