President Donald Trump told a rally on Tuesday that he does not want a new nuclear deal with Iran and suggested the United States could soon resume a "massive bombing" campaign against Tehran.
"I don't want a deal with Iran," Trump said, echoing his long‑standing scepticism of diplomatic arrangements.
According to NBC News, senior officials in the National Security Council have been weighing the option of re‑engaging large‑scale air strikes within the next few weeks. The discussion, described as "preparatory" rather than a final decision, reflects a shift from the limited strikes that have characterised the conflict since 2024.
Military options under review
U.S. commanders are reportedly reviewing a range of targeting packages that could involve high‑altitude bombers, cruise missiles and carrier‑based aircraft. Sources familiar with the plans said the objective would be to degrade Iran's air‑defence network and strike key command‑and‑control centres.
The Pentagon has not confirmed any operational timetable, but senior defence officials have warned that any escalation would require congressional notification under the War Powers Resolution.
Diplomatic backdrop
Talks to revive the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action have stalled since the European Union and China announced a joint framework earlier this month, which Iran rejected over demands for broader sanctions relief.
Washington's last major diplomatic overture – a proposed five‑year extension of the 2020 U.S. sanctions regime – collapsed after Tehran demanded a complete lift of restrictions on its missile programme.
Political fallout at home
Trump's comments have sparked a wave of criticism from both parties. Democratic lawmakers described the rhetoric as "dangerous" and warned it could push the region toward open war.
Republican figures, while generally supportive of a hard line on Tehran, urged caution, noting the economic repercussions of renewed hostilities on global oil markets.
Late‑night hosts in the United Kingdom and United States mocked the president's remarks, with one comedian suggesting the only thing Trump wants Iran to bomb is "Los Angeles or San Diego," a line that quickly trended on social media.
What lies ahead
Analysts say the United States faces a narrow window: a military strike could force Iran back to the negotiating table, but it also risks a retaliatory missile barrage that could endanger U.S. bases in the region.
Congress is expected to hold a closed‑door briefing on the matter later this week, where senior officials will outline the legal and strategic considerations of any large‑scale operation.
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