Pentagon Weighs Prolonged Military Campaign Against Iran

U.S. officials reportedly considering weeks-long strikes, anticipating Iranian retaliation

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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According to reports citing American officials, the Pentagon is considering a scenario for a prolonged, multi-week military campaign against Iran if President Trump orders strikes, rather than a one-time action. The plan involves expanding potential targets beyond just nuclear infrastructure to include state and military facilities, and anticipates an exchange of retaliatory strikes that could escalate the conflict regionally.

Why it matters

The prospect of a prolonged military campaign against Iran, rather than a limited strike, significantly raises the stakes and risks of the current crisis. It suggests the U.S. is preparing for a protracted conflict that could draw in regional actors and threaten American forces and interests across the Middle East.

The details

The current U.S. strategy involves a combination of diplomatic contacts, mediated by Oman, and a military buildup in the region, including the deployment of an additional aircraft carrier and other naval and air assets. While the White House says "all options" are being considered, the expectation of an Iranian response and potential for a back-and-forth exchange of strikes over an extended period is embedded in the American assessment.

  • U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner are planning contacts with Iran in Geneva next week with Omani mediation.
  • The transfer of the second aircraft carrier, the Gerald R. Ford, to the region will take at least a week.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who is reportedly considering ordering strikes on Iran.

Benjamin Netanyahu

The Prime Minister of Israel who has emphasized that any agreement with Iran must take into account parameters critically important for Israel.

Steve Witkoff

A U.S. envoy planning contacts with Iran in Geneva next week.

Jared Kushner

A U.S. envoy planning contacts with Iran in Geneva next week.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.