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Trump reviews possible US military expansion against Iran

Published 16 July 2026

President Donald Trump is reviewing a significant expansion of military operations against Iran, including potential strikes on strategic targets and the possible seizure of Iranian territory, as tensions remain high following days of sustained airstrikes. The discussions, which took place during a Situation Room meeting on Tuesday, July 14, involve options such as targeting Iran's main oil export hub on Kharg Island, bombing the underground nuclear-linked complex at Pickaxe Mountain, and increasing airstrikes on energy infrastructure. Officials familiar with the talks said no final decision has been made, and the administration continues to weigh diplomacy alongside more aggressive military action.

The deliberations follow a series of U.S. airstrikes over the past five days aimed at Iranian military positions along the Strait of Hormuz, including a strike on Greater Tunb Island on Wednesday, July 15. Military officials stated these daily attacks are intended to degrade Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the critical waterway and could lay the groundwork for larger operations. Despite this sustained pressure, Iran has not capitulated to U.S. demands regarding its...

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