Trump Reviews Military Options for Potential Campaign Against Iran

President Donald Trump met with top military officials at the White House on Thursday to review options for a potential military campaign against Iran. Admiral Brad Cooper, commander of U.S. Central Command, provided the briefing alongside Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine. The meetings followed a separate session involving Vice President JD Vance, who has engaged Iranian hard-liners to attempt to revive peace negotiations.

U.S. officials have reportedly advised Arab Gulf states to prepare for a short, intense military campaign following the midterm elections. President Trump suggested a return to heavy bombing, stating, "We may do another little Epic Fury," or that Iran may agree to terms. The reference follows a previous bombing campaign known as Epic Fury.

In response, Iran has threatened to attack U.S. and Gulf targets and has resumed ballistic missile production in underground facilities. To prepare for potential hostilities, the Pentagon has begun deploying additional munitions and air defenses to the Middle East, including the movement of a Patriot battery to Israel to bolster missile defenses.