President Donald Trump has reportedly approved U.S. military strike plans targeting Iran—particularly its nuclear facilities, including the fortified Fordow enrichment site—but has so far withheld a final order to execute the operation, according to senior officials cited by the Wall Street Journal and other major outlets.

The decision comes amid escalating tensions in the Middle East following Israeli strikes on Iranian military and nuclear infrastructure and threats of retaliation from Tehran. The Pentagon confirmed that strike options have been reviewed and are ready for execution pending presidential authorization.

Trump’s pause reflects his attempt to use military pressure as leverage in deterring Iran from advancing its nuclear program.

“May do it, may not do it,” Trump reportedly told his advisers behind closed doors.
Speaking publicly, he added, “Nobody knows what I’m going to do. But Iran should know I’m watching.”

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Details of the Strike Plans

According to defense sources, the Pentagon’s plans include targeted strikes on Iranian nuclear research facilities, command-and-control sites, and air defense systems. The Fordow uranium enrichment plant, located deep underground and heavily fortified, is believed to be a prime target due to its key role in Iran’s advanced nuclear activities.

The operation, if approved, would likely involve long-range precision missiles and air support from U.S. bases in the Middle East and Mediterranean.

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Global Reactions and Warnings

The Kremlin issued a strong condemnation on Wednesday, warning that a U.S. strike could bring the world "millimeters away from a nuclear catastrophe."
Russian President Vladimir Putin also called for restraint and offered Moscow’s services as a mediator in the Israel–Iran standoff.

Meanwhile, the European Union has urged both Washington and Tehran to return to diplomacy, warning that any attack on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure could trigger “irreversible escalation.”

China echoed the sentiment, calling for “maximum restraint” and warning that any strike could unravel global non-proliferation efforts.

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White House Position

National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan declined to comment on operational details but confirmed the President is reviewing multiple response options.

“The President is weighing a full range of responses. We remain committed to defending our allies and preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.”

The White House also confirmed that U.S. forces have increased readiness levels across key regional bases, and missile defense systems have been deployed to support Israeli airspace.

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Strategic Implications

Analysts suggest the delayed strike serves multiple purposes:

• Testing Iran’s response under pressure.
• Signaling deterrence without immediate engagement.
• Preserving political flexibility at the G7 summit, where Trump faces calls for diplomacy.

Iran has yet to respond directly to Trump’s comments but has warned that any attack will result in a “crushing regional response.”

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What’s Next?

With tensions high, international observers are watching closely to see whether diplomatic backchannels can prevent military confrontation—or whether the region is on the brink of a broader conflict.