Trump Rejected Five Middle East Strike Options as U.S. Military Prepares Plans

President Donald Trump has repeatedly rejected large-scale military options involving Iran or the Houthis even as the U.S. military prepares plans that could affect oil, risk sentiment and crypto markets.

The plans focus on Iran’s missile and drone stockpiles, energy facilities and Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command centers. The proposed campaign would last about three days and could also target Houthi forces.

Trump’s national security team and the Pentagon presented five options involving Iran or the Houthis in recent months, but Trump rejected each one. He has since ordered the strike planning to resume.

Three aircraft carriers are expected to reach the Middle East. Senior national security officials led by Vice President Vance met at Camp David last Friday to discuss the plans.

Trump has also said the United States and Iran are engaged in productive discussions and that the U.S. will not attack Iran before the midterm elections.