President Trump is weighing a significant expansion of U.S. Military operations against Iran, with a decision expected within days. American forces are already repositioning personnel and equipment in preparation for a potential wider campaign, according to senior U.S. Officials.
The White House is considering a major escalation, though no final determination has been made, Fox News reported. Any expanded operation would substantially exceed the nine-night series of precision strikes that began July 7, which targeted Iranian military positions near the Strait of Hormuz.
To date, U.S. Forces have deliberately avoided striking targets in or around Tehran and have not attacked Iran's nuclear facilities. However, one official indicated this approach could shift. "That could change if there is a return to full-scale war operations," The official said.
U.S. Central Command is preparing to strengthen its regional presence with additional tactical aircraft, including F-16 and F-35 fighters, and KC-135 aerial refueling tankers to support an expanded air campaign, according to Fox News Chief National Security Correspondent Jennifer Griffin. Some military assets have already begun moving to the Middle East as precautionary measures pending a final White House order.
"That is some of the movement that is occurring, but it is preparatory ahead of a final decision," The official said.
Aerial refueling aircraft are being relocated to Israel from other regional bases, with officials citing greater protection at Israeli airfields compared to Persian Gulf installations should the conflict expand. "All of that is being discussed and debated right now," The official said, noting Israel would likely join operations "if Trump decides to significantly widen the war."
U.S. Forces conducted strikes against Iranian military targets for a tenth consecutive night Monday. President Trump warned Iran against further attacks on American troops, declaring: "Every time Iran kills an American Soldier they will pay for that killing many times over!" He stated the directive has been communicated to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Daniel Caine, and military leadership broadly.