Ankara: US President Donald Trump is evaluating a military strategy that involves a 10- to 14-day intensive aerial assault against Iran. This proposal comes in response to attacks resulting in the deaths of four American service members, as reported by the Wall Street Journal on Wednesday.
According to Anadolu Agency, Adm. Brad Cooper, the head of the US military's Central Command (CENTCOM), introduced the plan, advocating for a robust "go big" approach to incapacitate Tehran's missile and drone capabilities. The strategy aims to "significantly blunt" the Iranian threat and disrupt the current stalemate by targeting Iran's offensive infrastructure, thereby reducing the need for defensive munitions in the future.
Adm. Cooper's proposal is based on his assessment that previous bombing targets have been "mostly exhausted," suggesting that only a substantial escalation into full-scale combat could achieve the desired strategic results. Nevertheless, this recommendation has sparked internal debate within the administration.
Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the joint chiefs of staff, reportedly advised caution, citing concerns over the US military's "dwindling supply of air defense interceptors." He warned the White House about the "second and third order consequences," highlighting the significant risks to American forces and regional allies, despite low inventories not hindering major combat operations.
Despite these internal discussions, Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell stated that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, along with Cooper and Caine, are "completely aligned and are united in mission," indicating a cohesive front within the Pentagon regarding the proposed military action.