Micah Jonah
February 14, 2026
The United States military is preparing for the possibility of sustained operations against Iran – should President Donald Trump order military action, according to reports citing US officials.
The officials disclosed that planning is underway for a potential campaign that could last several weeks, signalling a possible escalation beyond previous limited strikes carried out between both countries.
The development comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme. US and Iranian diplomats recently held talks in Oman, aimed at reviving negotiations.
However, tensions remain high. The Pentagon has reportedly deployed additional military assets to the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier, fighter jets, guided-missile destroyers and thousands of troops.
Speaking to US troops in North Carolina on Friday, Trump said it had been difficult to reach an agreement with Iran, adding that “sometimes you have to have fear” to resolve certain situations.
A White House spokesperson stated that the President has all options on the table regarding Iran and would make decisions based on national security interests. The Pentagon declined to comment on specific operational details.
Unlike last year’s limited “Midnight Hammer” strike, which targeted Iranian nuclear facilities, officials indicated that any sustained campaign could extend beyond nuclear infrastructure to include other state and security facilities.
Security analysts warn that such a move carries significant risks, noting that Iran possesses a substantial missile arsenal capable of targeting US bases across the Middle East, including installations in Qatar, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guards have also warned that any attack on Iranian territory would be met with retaliation against American military bases in the region.
Observers say a prolonged exchange of strikes could trigger broader regional instability, further complicating an already fragile Middle East security landscape.
