| Published June 18, 2025
In a dramatic turn amid the escalating Iran-Israel crisis, former U.S. President Donald Trump has approved comprehensive military strike plans against Iran—but has stopped short of issuing the final launch order. This revelation, reported by multiple sources underscores a critical moment of high-stakes decision-making. As tensions in the Middle East reach a boiling point, Trump’s move sends a strong signal of military readiness while leaving room for last-minute diplomacy. The world now watches closely, uncertain whether this strategy will avert war—or ignite it.
🔍 What We Know
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Multiple outlets, including The Wall Street Journal and sources cited by Reuters, report that former President Trump has approved detailed military strike plans against Iran—without issuing the final “go” order.
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His delay is reportedly strategic, pending Iran’s response to U.S. demands: abandoning its nuclear ambitions.
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Though Trump remains publicly ambiguous — stating “I may do it, I may not do it,” he underscores his hallmark approach: deciding at the very last moment.
🎯 Planned Targets & Strategic Intents
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The Fordow underground enrichment facility is reportedly the main target for U.S. bunker-buster strikes — a site Israel is unable or unwilling to fully neutralize.
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The intention? Prevent Iran from progressing toward a nuclear weapons capability, leveraging U.S. military superiority while still attempting political and diplomatic leverage.
🌐 Political & Diplomatic Context
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Internal split within Trump’s base: Some factions favor decisive force to eliminate threats; others urge restraint, respecting his “America First” ethos.
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Diplomatic overtures continue: European ministers and U.S. envoys maintain back-channel negotiation efforts, hoping to avoid full-blown conflict.
PRESIDENT TRUMP: The next week is going to be VERY BIG. Maybe less than a week.
“War is very complex. A lot of bad things can happen.” pic.twitter.com/i6kL5uaVcT
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) June 18, 2025
Implications
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Strategic Pressure Without Immediate War
By approving strike plans but not authorizing action, Trump maintains pressure on Iran while keeping diplomatic options open—intensifying psychological and strategic tension without committing to combat. -
Signals to Allies and Adversaries
This move signals resolve to Israel and U.S. allies, assuring them that America is prepared to act decisively. At the same time, it warns Iran and its partners (like Hezbollah) that military intervention remains on the table. -
Increased Volatility in the Middle East
The mere existence of an approved strike plan raises the risk of miscalculation. Iran may respond preemptively, or its proxies may escalate attacks, expecting a U.S. offensive at any moment. -
Impact on Nuclear Negotiations
Trump’s action complicates ongoing efforts to reengage Iran diplomatically. Tehran may harden its stance or accelerate nuclear activities, interpreting the move as a threat rather than leverage. -
Influence on U.S. Domestic Politics
The decision plays into the U.S. election cycle narrative—Trump can present himself as both strong and restrained, avoiding war while preparing for it. This could affect voter perception of leadership strength versus recklessness. -
Military Posturing and Readiness Costs
Preparing for large-scale strikes demands deployment and readiness from U.S. forces, especially naval and air assets in the Gulf. This increases operational costs and heightens readiness fatigue. -
Ripple Effect on Global Markets
Anticipation of a U.S.-Iran conflict has already unsettled oil markets. A strike—even if not executed—can affect global prices, shipping routes, and investment confidence across the region.
Overall Takeaway:
Trump’s approval of detailed military plans against Iran—while holding off on a final strike order—marks a deliberate and high-stakes balancing act. It signals readiness to use force while leveraging uncertainty to pressure Iran diplomatically. This approach escalates regional tension, increases the risk of miscalculation, and shapes global perception of U.S. strength. However, the lack of immediate action leaves room for diplomacy, making this a pivotal moment that could either avert war or accelerate it.
SOURCES: THE GATEWAY PUNDIT – Trump on Israel-Iran War: “Next Week Is Going to Be Very Big – Maybe Less than a Week” (VIDEO)
REDSTATE – Trump Approves Iran Attack Plans But Withholds Final Strike Order
THE WALL STREET – Israel, Iran Trade Fire as U.S. Weighs Options
AP NEWS – Trump says he’s ‘not looking for a fight’ with Iran but stands ready to act if necessary
