Trump growing frustrated by limits of military options against Iran, sources say
Feb 24th 2026
Multiple aides told CBS News the president wants a forceful strike to reset negotiations, but military planners caution limited attacks would not be decisive and could spark wider conflict while US forces in the region are being reinforced.
- Trump has expressed impatience with what aides describe as the limited leverage of military options against Iran.
- Military planners warn that limited strikes are unlikely to be decisive and could provoke retaliation and a protracted engagement.
- Trump publicly denied reports that Gen. Dan Caine opposes action, saying Caine would carry out orders and win if directed.
- The US has increased regional deployments, including the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln carrier groups and reinforced air defenses such as Patriot and THAAD systems.
- Whether the buildup leads to strikes will depend on Tehran's next moves and how much risk Washington is prepared to accept.