'Finger on trigger': Trump has not decided on large-scale attacks against Iran, sources tell 'Post'

U.S. President Donald Trump has not yet committed to launching major strikes against Iran, despite public statements indicating readiness for military action, according to sources familiar with the administration's decision-making. While Trump told reporters the United States is "locked and loaded" and could escalate military campaigns "to a much higher level" if necessary, his preferred option remains a negotiated agreement.

Diplomatic talks with Tehran are ongoing, and Trump has suggested that Iran is engaging more seriously in these discussions. However, he reiterated the administration's firm stance: "They cannot have a nuclear weapon." The U.S. military had maintained a sustained campaign against Iranian targets for nearly two weeks, with strike plans approved daily by Trump. This marked the first interruption in operations in that period.

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We’re locked and loaded.

On Friday, Trump received another proposed strike plan but opted not to authorize new attacks, instructing the military to pause. It remains unclear if this pause is temporary or signals a longer suspension. The U.S. military retains the capability to resume strikes on short notice and continues to develop contingency plans for a broader campaign.

In Israel, a proposal was submitted to the government suggesting a high probability of an attack on the civilian population, prompting a request to extend special Home Front Command measures until August 11th. This comes amid ongoing tensions and the possibility of Iranian aggression.

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They cannot have a nuclear weapon.