President Donald Trump has publicly disputed media reports suggesting that top U.S. military officials expressed reservations about potential military action against Iran. On his Truth Social platform, Trump declared it “100 percent incorrect” that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, had opposed military engagement with Tehran.
Multiple news organizations, including The Washington Post and Wall Street Journal, had reported that General Caine raised significant concerns during White House and Pentagon discussions about the risks associated with striking Iran. These concerns reportedly included munition shortages, inadequate allied support, potential U.S. and allied casualties, and the depletion of U.S. air defense systems. The Axios news outlet further indicated that Caine warned against the United States “becoming entangled in a prolonged conflict.”
Despite these reported cautions, Trump asserted that General Caine “only knows one thing: how to WIN” and would lead effectively if commanded to engage Iran militarily. The president emphasized his sole authority in making such decisions, stating he would prefer a diplomatic resolution but warning that without a deal, “it will be a very bad day for that country and, very sadly, its people.”
The context for these developments includes Trump’s previous order to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities last year and his repeated threats of further military action if ongoing negotiations fail to produce a replacement for the 2018 nuclear deal that he abandoned during his first term. Washington has significantly bolstered its military presence in the Middle East with two aircraft carriers, over a dozen additional ships, and numerous warplanes deployed to the region.
Diplomatic efforts continue despite the heightened tensions, with a U.S. official confirming that the next round of talks with Tehran is scheduled for Thursday.