President Donald Trump is weighing a massive military strike against Iran and could make a decision within days, he told Axios on Thursday. The US leader said he's seriously mulling a resumption of major combat operations that would dwarf previous strikes, including those carried out during Operation Epic Fury.
In the brief interview, Trump acknowledged such a move carries serious consequences but stressed he hasn't yet decided. He didn't specify when he'd announce his determination.
Two US officials confirmed no decision has been made and the military hasn't received new orders. "I am considering a massive attack.
Bigger than ever before. I am close to making a decision.
We are all set for it," Trump said.
The president suggested Israel would quickly join any offensive if asked but added the US doesn't require outside help. However, he hinted at potential Iranian retaliation against Israel if it participates in strikes.
Trump claimed Iran wants to negotiate but isn't prepared to deal yet. "They haven't received enough pain yet," he said.
Two regional sources involved in mediation efforts said Iran's leadership has rejected the latest proposal. "We are trying, but the Iranians are not being helpful," one told reporters.
The current tensions have pushed oil above $100 per barrel, and renewed full-scale warfare remains deeply unpopular domestically. Over the past 12 days, America has stepped up strikes seeking to halt Iranian attacks on commercial vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran has shown no signs of backing down and has intensified its own operations across the region. Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have begun targeting Saudi ships in the Red Sea, destabilising yet another vital oil route.
Trump posted on Truth Social that another Red Sea attack would trigger US retaliation. "The U.S. will hold Iran responsible," he wrote, branding the Houthis as an Iranian proxy and vowing "major military punishment will be inflicted upon Iran and, of course, the Houthis, themselves."
Separately, Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to attend the funeral of the late Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington next week.
