US military planning for Iran reaches advanced stage, includes options to target individuals The military options are the latest signs that the United States is preparing for a serious conflict with Iran should diplomatic efforts failReutersUS military planning on Iran has reached an advanced stage with options including targeting individuals as part of an attack and even pursuing regime change in Tehran, if ordered by President Donald Trump, two US officials told Reuters. The military options are the latest signs that the United States is preparing for a serious conflict with Iran should diplomatic efforts fail. One of the US officials noted Israel's success targeting Iranian leaders during its 12-day war with Iran last year. Iran's Revolutionary Guard has warned it could retaliate against U.S. military bases in the region if the US strikes Iranian territory. A senior US official said Iran would make a written proposal on how to address US concerns.

Source: The Telegraph February 20, 2026 16:42 UTC