US military could be ready to strike Iran this weekend, but President Trump has not approved action, reports say

Amid rising tensions in the Middle East, US military forces are reportedly prepared for potential action against Iran as early as this weekend, though President Donald Trump has not made a final decision, according to US media reports.

CNN reported that the White House has been briefed on military readiness timelines, with officials indicating that operational plans could be executed within days if authorised. The report comes as Washington has expanded its military presence in the region, deploying additional air and naval assets.

Senior national security officials from the administration met in the White House Situation Room on Wednesday to review developments. Trump was also briefed by special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, the network said, citing sources familiar with the discussions.

Despite the reported readiness, it remains uncertain whether Trump will approve any strike. “He is spending a lot of time thinking about this,” CNN quoted a source as saying.

Separately, The Wall Street Journal said Trump has been presented with a range of military options aimed at maximising strategic impact. The newspaper, citing an unnamed official, reported that scenarios under consideration include extensive strikes targeting Iranian leadership and military infrastructure.

US Expands Regional Military Presence

The US has recently reinforced its military posture in the Middle East. The aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and its air wing are operating in the region, while additional naval and air force deployments have been reported.

CNN also said US Air Force assets previously based in the United Kingdom, including refueling aircraft and fighter jets, are being repositioned closer to potential theatres of operation. Flight-tracking data has indicated increased US military transport activity to countries including Jordan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia.

Iran Signals Deterrence

Iran has responded by highlighting its own military preparedness. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has launched military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy corridor. Iranian officials have repeatedly warned that escalation could threaten maritime traffic through the waterway.

Diplomatic Signals Continue

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said diplomacy remains Washington’s preferred path, urging Tehran to engage constructively in negotiations.

“There was a little bit of progress made, but we are still far apart on some issues,” she told reporters, referring to recent talks in Geneva. “The president will continue to watch how this plays out.”

On the Iranian side, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is drafting a framework for future discussions with the United States. President Masoud Pezeshkian reiterated that Iran does “not want war,” while warning against what he described as external pressure.

Meanwhile, US Energy Secretary Chris Wright emphasised Washington’s stance on Iran’s nuclear ambitions, stating that the US would prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons “one way or the other.”

The developments underscore a volatile moment in US-Iran relations, with military preparations and diplomatic messaging unfolding simultaneously.