Trump Weighs Potential Iran Strikes, But No Decision Yet

Top officials say military is ready, but timeline remains fluid as White House considers risks and consequences.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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President Trump has discussed potential timelines for strikes on Iran, including as soon as this weekend, but has not yet made a final decision, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The Pentagon is moving some personnel out of the Middle East region as a precautionary measure ahead of any possible action or counterattacks by Iran.

Why it matters

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran have been high, with the Trump administration previously taking military action against Iran's nuclear facilities. Any strikes on Iran would risk escalating the conflict and have significant political and military consequences.

The details

Top national security officials have told President Trump that the military is ready for potential strikes on Iran as soon as this weekend. However, the timeline for any action is likely to extend beyond this weekend, as the White House weighs the risks of escalation and the political and military consequences of restraint. The Pentagon is moving some personnel temporarily out of the Middle East region, primarily to Europe or back to the U.S., ahead of potential action or counterattacks by Iran.

  • The Pentagon is moving some personnel out of the Middle East region over the next three days.

The players

President Trump

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

Marco Rubio

The U.S. Secretary of State who plans to visit Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in about two weeks for further discussions.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei

The Supreme Leader of Iran who posted an AI-generated photo of a U.S. aircraft carrier at the bottom of the ocean.

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What they’re saying

“We're still very far apart on some issues.”

— Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary (CBS News)

“Iran would be very wise to make a deal with President Trump and with his administration.”

— Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary (CBS News)

What’s next

Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to visit Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in about two weeks for further discussions on the situation with Iran.

The takeaway

The Trump administration is weighing the risks and consequences of potential strikes on Iran, with no final decision made yet. The situation remains fluid, with the Pentagon taking precautionary measures and diplomacy ongoing, as the White House seeks to balance military options with the potential for escalation.