Trump Weighs Expanded Offensive Against Iran as CENTCOM Sustains Pressure

Washington, July 23, 2026 — President Donald Trump said Thursday he is seriously considering a large-scale military strike on Iran that would exceed the scope of previous U.S. operations in the conflict, and that he is nearing a final decision.

In an exclusive interview with Axios, Trump stated: “I’m considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before. I’m close to making a decision. We’re all ready for it.”

He added that the U.S. military is fully prepared and positioned to carry out such an operation. Trump noted that Israel would join “in two minutes” if asked, but emphasized that the United States does not require partners and is capable of acting independently.

The comments come amid intensified U.S. Central Command operations against Iranian targets. American forces have conducted strikes for roughly 12 consecutive nights, focusing on missile and drone storage sites, air defenses, and coastal positions linked to threats against commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz region. Oil prices have risen above $100 a barrel amid the heightened tensions.

Earlier deployments of specialized assets, including EA-37B Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft and aerial refueling tankers, have supported the broader campaign that began earlier this year under operations such as Epic Fury. Tehran has previously warned that any major escalation could prompt attacks on U.S.-linked infrastructure across the region.

No final decision on expanded strikes has been announced, and U.S. officials have indicated that no new operational orders for a wider campaign have been issued as of Thursday. Trump has repeatedly left open the possibility of negotiations even while maintaining military pressure, though he has argued that Iran has not yet “felt enough pain.”

The situation remains fluid, with regional allies monitoring developments closely and oil markets reacting to the risk of further disruption in one of the world’s most critical energy corridors.