Trump came close to striking Iran in early January over the killing of thousands of protesters by the regime.
But when the window of opportunity passed, the administration shifted to a two-track approach: nuclear talks paired with a massive military build-up.
By delaying and bringing so much force to bear, Trump has raised expectations for what an operation will look like if a deal can't be reached.
And right now, a deal does not look likely.
...
The Israeli government — which is pushing for a maximalist scenario targeting regime change as well as Iran's nuclear and missile programs — is preparing for a scenario of war within days, according to two Israeli officials.
Some U.S. sources tell Axios that the U.S. might need more time. Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) said strikes could still be weeks away. But others say the timeline could be shorter.
"The boss is getting fed up. Some people around him warn him against going to war with Iran, but I think there is 90% chance we see kinetic action in the next few weeks," one Trump adviser said.
U.S. officials said after Tuesday's talks that Iran needs to come back with a detailed proposal in two weeks.
Last June 19, the White House set a two-week window for Trump to decide between further talks or strikes. Three days later, he launched Operation Midnight Hammer.
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Gotta support Israel cuz they're Epstein blackmailing him.
They can't start a war too close to elections.
They can't start a war too far from elections.
The war, economic collapse, or other crises must be carried over by the next administration so both tribes can blame each other.
From the article: