Trump Receives Briefing on Military Options Against Iran

President Trump received a briefing Thursday from Central Command Commander Admiral Brad Cooper and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine on potential military options against Iran. According to reports citing U.S. officials, the session focused on contingency plans as the administration approaches a key 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution that falls on Friday.

Defense News and CNBC reported that military commanders were scheduled to present the options to the president before the statutory clock requires congressional authorization for continued operations.

The briefing occurred on the 63rd day since U.S. aerial bombardment began February 28 and hostilities were halted with a ceasefire on April 8. The Guardian reported that the Trump administration has stated hostilities in Iran have been “terminated” ahead of the war powers deadline.

The Hill noted that Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has argued the 60-day clock stopped with the ceasefire.

Fox News and Axios reports cited in the source bundle described three distinct packages under discussion, including strikes on infrastructure, ground operations related to the Strait of Hormuz, and special forces actions involving Iran’s enriched uranium stockpile.

GB News reported preparations for possible first combat use of the Dark Eagle hypersonic missile system, which has a range of 2,700 kilometers and speeds up to Mach 5, with fewer than eight missiles currently available. Reuters reported that Iran has said it will retaliate if the U.S. resumes attacks.

Trump told interviewers the U.S. had already achieved victory in the conflict but wanted to win by a larger margin. He highlighted destruction of Iran’s navy, air force, anti-aircraft equipment, radar, and leadership. The president has said Iran is “dying to make a deal” and that he will not accept retention of their nuclear program or leave enriched uranium with Tehran.