WASHINGTON (AP) — As U.S.-Iran negotiations enter a critical phase, President Donald Trump is weighing military options, including a potential strike on Iranian targets, according to White House insiders. The discussions, scheduled for Thursday in Geneva, represent a last-ditch effort to avert a military confrontation over Iran’s nuclear program.
Trump, speaking at the inaugural meeting of his Board of Peace, warned that “bad things will happen” if Iran doesn’t reach an agreement, suggesting a timeframe of roughly ten days for a resolution.
The possibility of military action comes as two aircraft carrier strike groups have moved within striking distance of Iran, representing the largest U.S. naval buildup in the region since the Iraq War. While a limited strike is being considered to demonstrate resolve, sources indicate Trump hasn’t ruled out a larger assault later this year aimed at removing Iran’s leadership, specifically Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.
Negotiators from both countries began talks in April 2025, seeking a nuclear peace agreement. However, a significant impasse remains: Trump’s administration demands a complete halt to all uranium enrichment, while Iranian officials have stated they are unwilling to relinquish their enrichment capabilities.
A potential compromise is reportedly under consideration, allowing Iran to maintain a limited nuclear enrichment program solely for medical research and treatments. This would allow both sides to claim a victory – the U.S. could assert that Iran has ceased military enrichment, while Iran could maintain its research reactors.
During a Wednesday meeting in the White House Situation Room, Trump discussed strike plans with Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, General Dan Caine, and CIA Director John Ratcliffe. Sources present at the meeting said General Caine was unable to guarantee success in any attack on Iran, a contrast to previous assessments regarding operations in Venezuela.
Earlier considerations of special forces raids targeting Iranian facilities, some deeply underground, have reportedly been shelved for now.
The situation remains fluid, with the outcome of Thursday’s negotiations holding significant implications for regional stability and global security.
