Media: US may target Iranian leaders with precision strikes this week

The US is considering precision strikes on "high-value" Iranian officials and commanders it holds responsible for the deaths of protesters, a Gulf official familiar with the discussions told Middle East Eye (MEE). 

According to the official, the strikes could take place as early as this week, though that timeline remains flexible.

Internal discussions within the administration have been described as “chaotic,” with debates focusing on the potential repercussions, particularly regarding Iranian retaliation. 

While some reports portrayed Trump's comments as signalling a halt to US intervention, former US officials and analysts told MEE that they seemed to indicate a temporary pause. 

A former US intelligence official added that their understanding of conversations within the administration is that Trump has not abandoned efforts to pursue “regime change” in Tehran.

Earlier, Trump said in an interview with Axios that Tehran is interested in a diplomatic resolution of disputes with the United States. At the same time, the American leader stressed that he has deployed significant forces near Iran.

"We have a big armada next to Iran. Bigger than Venezuela," Trump emphasised.

Meanwhile, sources familiar with the situation stated that Trump has not made a final decision and is expected to hold further consultations this week, during which additional military options will be presented.

By Jeyhun Aghazada