Trump weighs major strike on Iran's energy network as US and Israel prepare bombing campaign The United States and Israel are preparing what could become the most devastating air campaign yet against Iran's energy infrastructure, with military strikes reportedly possible as early as this weekend. Multiple US sources told CBS News that planning is well advanced, although President Donald Trump has not yet given the final order to proceed. Officials have reportedly discussed completing any operation before financial markets reopen on Monday to reduce the risk of global economic turmoil, though no final timetable has been agreed. Energy sector in the crosshairsPower stations, oil refineries and other energy-related facilities are expected to feature prominently on the target list if the operation goes ahead. According to US officials, the objective would be to weaken Tehran's ability to sustain military operations while undermining the regime's capacity to provide essential services across the country. There were also high-level discussions on Friday about potentially cutting electricity supplies to Tehran, although officials stressed no decision had been made. Israel coordinates but denies final decisionUS and Israeli officials have been coordinating closely over contingency plans. However, an Israeli official insisted no final decision had been taken to resume large-scale military operations. "Israel is unaware of a decision to restart full military operations, nor has it been requested to join any military actions against Iran," the official said. Any joint campaign would mark Israel's return to direct combat operations after suspending offensive action during the US-brokered ceasefire that later collapsed. Since fighting resumed in early July, Iran has concentrated its retaliation on US forces rather than launching fresh attacks against Israel. Trump: 'We'll be hitting them very hard'The proposed operation was reportedly discussed during President Trump's Cabinet meeting at Camp David on Friday. While some White House political advisers are said to have opposed another escalation, Trump signalled that military action remains firmly on the table. "We'll be hitting them very hard," the president told reporters. "At some point, they're going to say, 'We just can't take it anymore.'" Asked whether diplomacy remained an option, Trump replied simply: "I think we just want to win." White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reiterated the administration's position, saying the United States would ensure Iran never acquires a nuclear weapon while Trump remains president. Meanwhile, Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell declared the military was "locked and loaded" and prepared to execute any presidential order immediately. Netanyahu presented three military optionsDuring this week's meeting in Washington, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reportedly presented Trump with three possible military strategies. According to a senior Israeli official, one proposal focused on intensifying strikes against Iran's military logistics and land resupply routes. Netanyahu also held talks with Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth as the allies assessed options following the collapse of ceasefire efforts. Hormuz threats continueThe latest planning follows Trump's warning that every Iranian attack on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz would be met with devastating retaliation. Last week the president declared he would bomb and destroy an Iranian bridge or power plant for every attack on commercial vessels passing through the strategic waterway. If approved, the latest operation would represent another major escalation in the widening conflict, shifting the focus from military installations towards the infrastructure that powers Iran's economy and supports the regime's ability to wage war. SOURCE
