The United States military has prepared for potential weeks-long strikes against Iran if President Donald Trump issues the order, according to two unnamed US officials cited by Reuters. The officials said the plan would allow sustained attacks over several weeks, though they declined to be identified due to the sensitivity of the matter. The preparations come amid heightened tensions in the Middle East following recent US troop deployments.

The report noted that the Pentagon is sending another aircraft carrier to the region, equipped with warplanes, military equipment, and thousands of troops. Last week, US and Iranian diplomats met in Oman to revive diplomacy over Tehran’s nuclear program. During a visit to a North Carolina base, Trump remarked that reaching a deal with Iran had become difficult and suggested that creating fear was sometimes necessary to manage the situation. White House spokesperson Anna Kelly said all options remain open for the president regarding Iran.

Analysts suggest that if the strikes begin, the conflict between the two nations could escalate significantly across the Middle East.