US President Donald Trump has instructed his team to develop options for rapid military action against Iran that is decisive without dragging the US into a prolonged war in the Middle East.
The Wall Street Journal reports it, relaunched by the international media. According to the newspaper’s sources, Trump expects scenarios of attacks that could inflict tangible damage on the Iranian regime that would force Tehran to make concessions: this mainly concerns the acceptance of Washington’s demands regarding its nuclear program, as well as the release of political opponents and dissidents. Among the more drastic options reportedly being considered are a series of large-scale airstrikes against Iranian government and Pasdaran targets that would demonstrate US strength and resolve without resorting to full-scale war. At the same time, work is also being done on a less radical approach: targeted attacks on symbolic targets. These would leave room for further escalation if Iran refuses to conclude a deal on terms acceptable to the Trump administration.