U.S. Military Prepared for Strikes Against Iran, Later Canceled by Trump

The U.S. military nearly launched a missile attack on Iran, coming within three hours of action before President Trump halted the plans. According to two U.S. officials, the military had received orders to execute the strikes, with Navy ships adjusting their air operations and preparing munitions. Although Kharg Island had been threatened in Trump’s communications, it was not on the target list. Plans for Kharg Island existed but were not approved by the president. Previous military actions have targeted Kharg Island during combat.

In the morning, Trump’s social media statement indicated severe strikes on Iran that night, mentioning plans to take Kharg Island and other oil infrastructure, which did not align with military preparations. Military officials began planning specific strikes only after Trump’s post. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth required different strike options from those previously briefed to him. Secretary Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine discussed options at the White House, and Trump soon announced the cancellation of the strikes.

In a related development, the U.S. Treasury Department stated that Iranian assets would cover damages inflicted on Gulf allies. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent emphasized that Iran’s aggressive actions would deepen its economic challenges, detailing that Iranian funds would be utilized for Gulf repairs. Discussions with Iran involve several countries, including Israel, Saudi Arabia, and others. However, Iran’s foreign ministry denied any finalized agreement, attributing disruptions to U.S. actions.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu appreciated that negotiations would include removing enriched uranium from Iran and setting limits on missile production. This was part of an emerging memorandum of understanding between the U.S. and Iran, though Iran denies completion of negotiations.

Financial markets reacted positively to the idea of a potential deal, with stocks rising and oil prices dropping. The S&P 500 and Nasdaq indices closed higher, and the Dow increased significantly. Changes in oil pricing were notable, with a decrease in crude prices after Trump’s announcement.

Following negotiations, discussions of ceasefires and military engagements continue. Iran has voiced readiness for decisive responses to strikes against it, while the U.S. military has been active in disabling non-compliant ships in the region. This includes the disabling of a tanker in the Gulf of Oman by U.S. forces.

Relations between the U.S. and Iran, along with regional tensions, remain complex and fluid, with significant diplomatic efforts ongoing amidst military readiness.