President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he is considering military action against Iran, describing a potential operation as more significant than previous strikes. In an interview with Axios, the president indicated that a decision had not yet been finalized and provided no specific timeline for a launch. Two U.S. officials confirmed that no formal orders for a new military operation have been issued to the Department of Defense.
The potential for increased military engagement follows twelve days of escalating U.S. strikes intended to stop Iranian interference with commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. Despite these efforts, regional sources report that Iranian leadership has not accepted current mediation proposals and has intensified its own activities. This escalation includes attacks by Houthi rebels in Yemen against Saudi vessels in the Red Sea, for which the president has stated he will hold Iran responsible.
The ongoing tension has contributed to global energy market fluctuations, with oil prices rising above $100 per barrel. President Trump noted that while he believes Israel would participate in military actions if requested, the U.S. is prepared to act independently. He also mentioned a possible meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Washington next week during the wake for late Senator Lindsey Graham.