Tensions between the US and Iran continue to rise as international media reports state that Washington is preparing for possible military action in the near future.
According to a report by The Daily Telegraph citing defense officials who briefed Donald Trump, US military readiness is expected to reach full operational level by the weekend, thus opening the way for launching air strikes against Iran if the order is given.
Officials reportedly informed that increased military assets, including about 50 additional fighter jets, aerial refueling tankers and other support aircraft, have been moved to the Middle East this week.
In addition, a second aircraft carrier strike group led by the USS Gerald R. Ford is expected to arrive in the eastern Mediterranean in a few days.
This combination of fighter jets, support aircraft and warships could potentially allow the US to carry out continuous bombing operations for weeks if it receives political approval.
At the same time, ground-based missile defense systems have also been strengthened in the region over the past month to protect US interests, Gulf allies and Israel from possible Iranian retaliation.
Despite heightened military preparations, President Trump has reportedly not made a final decision on whether to launch an attack.
A report by The Wall Street Journal stated that Trump has been briefed on several military options, including an attack on Iran's nuclear facilities.
Other options discussed include efforts to weaken Iran's leadership through targeted air strikes that could potentially target Ali Khamenei, his top ally and the leadership of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, as well as disrupting the country's military command and control capabilities.
In a statement to the media aboard Air Force One, Trump stressed that serious consequences would occur if no deal was reached with Iran, while stating that the US would ensure an agreement was reached at any cost.
The development increases global geopolitical risks and has the potential to directly impact financial markets, oil prices and safe-haven asset flows in the near term.
