Washington (HRNW)- Differences have emerged between the US military and political leadership regarding the ongoing military operations against Iran.
According to US media reports, senior officials at the White House and the Pentagon hold differing views on how far military operations against Iran should be expanded.
According to a US newspaper, Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command (CENTCOM), supports large-scale airstrikes against Iran. The report states that under his proposed plan, air operations could continue for approximately two weeks to further weaken Iran’s military capabilities.
In contrast, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Kaine and US Defense Secretary Pat Hegseth are reportedly advocating a more cautious approach.
According to reports, both officials believe the United States should preserve its air defense systems, including interceptor missiles and other critical weapons reserves, to avoid shortages in the event of a larger future conflict.
Sources say these strategic differences will require President Donald Trump to decide whether military operations against Iran should remain at their current level or be expanded further.
The development comes after President Trump indicated a strong response following Iran’s alleged missile attacks on a US military base in Jordan.
In a television interview, President Trump claimed that Iran launched a surprise missile attack on the US base in Jordan, but said the missiles were intercepted and destroyed within minutes by the US air defense system.
President Trump stated that the United States would take all necessary measures to protect its troops and national interests and would deliver a “very strong response” to any Iranian attacks.
Defense analysts say the differing views within the US leadership reflect the sensitive stage of Washington’s decision-making over its future military strategy toward Iran. They believe President Trump’s decision in the coming days could significantly influence the broader security situation in the Middle East.
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