After returning to Washington following his visit to China, U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly under mounting pressure over whether to authorize renewed military action against Iran.
According to defense sources, senior advisers at the Pentagon have prepared multiple operational plans for potential strikes after diplomatic efforts failed to produce a breakthrough. However, no final decision has been made, and the situation now awaits the president’s approval.
Military Plans Under Review
Officials at the The Pentagon said contingency planning includes the possible restart of a suspended operation referred to as “Operation Epic Fury,” which had been paused during a temporary ceasefire in April.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has reportedly informed lawmakers that the military has prepared escalation options if required.
These include intensified bombing campaigns targeting Iranian military and infrastructure sites, as well as highly sensitive proposals involving special forces operations near underground nuclear facilities in Isfahan, aimed at securing enriched uranium stockpiles.
Trump’s Position and Diplomatic Frustration
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s latest peace proposal, saying he rejected it after disliking the opening line of the document.
The president also reiterated a hardening stance toward Tehran, warning that U.S. patience is “running out” and urging Iran to reach a deal quickly.
At the same time, Trump claimed that following discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, Washington and Beijing had reached an understanding on reopening the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz.
Intelligence Assessments and Military Balance
However, U.S. intelligence assessments reportedly suggest that despite years of strikes and sanctions, Iran has significantly rebuilt its military capabilities.
According to internal evaluations, Tehran has regained control over 30 out of 33 missile bases located near the Strait of Hormuz, and approximately 70 percent of its previous missile stockpile remains intact.
Iranian Response and Rising Tensions
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf has issued a strong warning, stating that Iranian armed forces are fully prepared to respond decisively to any U.S. aggression.
Amid rising tensions, global oil markets have reacted sharply, with crude prices continuing to rise and adding fresh concerns to an already fragile global economy.
A High-Stakes Decision Ahead
With military options on the table and diplomatic channels still uncertain, Trump now faces a critical decision point. Any move toward renewed strikes could significantly escalate tensions in the Middle East, while inaction may be seen as a strategic setback amid growing pressure from both military advisers and political stakeholders.
