Trump considers large-scale Iran attack, potentially larger than 'Majestic Wrath'
Translated from Korean, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- U.S. President Donald Trump indicated he is considering a large-scale attack on Iran, potentially larger than the 'Majestic Wrath' operation.
- Trump stated the U.S. is close to a decision but did not set a deadline, emphasizing readiness while noting Iran has not yet suffered enough.
- The U.S. has been conducting airstrikes to deter Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, but tensions are escalating with Iranian-backed Houthi rebels attacking ships in the Red Sea.
President Donald Trump has revealed that the United States is contemplating a significant military response against Iran, potentially exceeding the scale of previous operations. In an interview with Axios, Trump stated, "We are considering a large-scale attack. A bigger attack than before." He indicated that a decision is imminent, asserting, "We are close to a decision. We are all prepared."
We are considering a large-scale attack. A bigger attack than before. We are close to a decision. We are all prepared.
While Trump did not specify a timeline for this potential action, his remarks suggest a response that could be more substantial than limited airstrikes, possibly surpassing the scope of the 'Majestic Wrath' operation. Two U.S. officials confirmed to Axios that no final decision has been made and no new orders have been issued to the military.
Trump also commented on potential alliances, stating that Israel would join an attack within two minutes if requested. However, he also asserted U.S. self-sufficiency, adding, "We don't need anyone" for the attack. He acknowledged that an Israeli involvement could lead to retaliation from Iran, warning that "consequences would follow."
If I ask, Israel will join the attack within 2 minutes. However, we don't need anyone. Consequences would follow if Israel joins.
The President suggested that Iran desires negotiations but is not yet ready for an agreement, claiming, "They haven't suffered enough yet." Regional sources familiar with mediation efforts indicated that Iran's leadership recently rejected a proposal. U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo echoed a firm stance, describing the U.S. policy toward Iran as 'an eye for an eye,' and vowing that Iran would pay a price.
They want to negotiate, but we are not ready to make a deal right now. They haven't suffered enough yet.
The heightened tensions come amid ongoing U.S. airstrikes aimed at deterring Iran's attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran has intensified its regional actions, with Houthi rebels, supported by Iran, attacking Saudi Arabian ships in the Red Sea. Trump warned via Truth Social that if the Houthis resume attacks, "the United States will hold Iran responsible," characterizing the Houthis as Iranian proxies and promising "significant military consequences" for both Iran and the Houthis.
An eye for an eye.
Originally published by Hankyoreh in Korean. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.