Report: Trump Considered 'Massive Attack' on Iran – Then Came Pentagon Warning on Interceptors

A New York Times report reveals that President Donald Trump considered approving extensive bombings against military targets, energy facilities, and nuclear sites in Iran, but has backed off for now due to a Pentagon warning that escalation could dangerously deplete the stock of Patriot missiles and interceptors in the Middle East. Concerns also include a harsh Iranian response, harm to Gulf allies, and a rise in energy prices.

A New York Times report reveals that U.S. President Donald Trump considered approving a massive aerial attack on Iran, including extensive bombings of military targets, energy facilities, and nuclear sites, but has backed off for now. The main reason: a Pentagon warning that such escalation could dangerously deplete the stock of Patriot missiles and air defense interceptors in the Middle East. The decision came after a Friday discussion with senior advisors, during which only a few supported expanding the campaign. The fear of depleting interceptors is one of several considerations: the administration fears the war expanding, harming relations with Gulf states, a global economic crisis, rising energy prices, and worsening refugee crises. In recent weeks, American defense systems have had to contend with heavy barrages of Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeting bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE. Three American soldiers were killed in Jordan after a ballistic missile penetrated air defenses. Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine warned that such a move could deplete the number of available interceptors. According to internal Pentagon estimates, the U.S. has used over 1,200 Patriot interceptors during the war, at a cost of over four million dollars each. Trump himself said in an interview that he is considering a 'massive attack, bigger than anything before,' but after the discussion, he appears to have frozen the plan. An alternative raised by advisors, including Jared Kushner, is sustained economic pressure and negotiations. Tensions remain high, and the decision could change if Iran intensifies attacks.