Various options for attacking Iran. Iranian leaders may be targeted

Military plans for a U.S. attack on Iran are very advanced and include various options, including changing the regime in Tehran or eliminating individual leaders, Reuters reported on Friday, citing talks with two representatives of Donald Trump's administration.

Developing military options – this is another sign that the US is preparing for a serious conflict with Iran if diplomatic contacts fail – comments Reuters and recalls that last week it was the first to report information that the US armed forces are preparing for a multi-week operation against Tehran, which could include attacks on nuclear facilities.

The latest, more detailed information seems to indicate more advanced, ambitious plans being developed in anticipation of the decision of President Trump, who in recent days has signaled that he is considering changing the regime in Tehran, the agency estimates.

Reuters' interlocutors did not specify which Iranian leaders could be the target of attacks, or how the US military could overthrow the regime without the involvement of significant ground forces.

One administration official pointed out in an interview with the agency that Israel successfully eliminated at least 20 high-ranking commanders during the 12-day war with Iran last year, which – as he emphasized – “proved how useful this approach is.” However, he noted that targeting individuals would require “additional intelligence sources.”

Reuters' interlocutors did not have any information about the American intelligence's understanding of this matter.

Earlier on Friday, Trump said, referring to a Wall Street Journal article about an attack option that would force Iran to make concessions, that he “may say he is considering a limited attack on Iran.”

According to the daily, Trump could issue such an order in the coming days. The president said on Thursday that he hopes to reach an agreement with Iran and will see if it is possible within 10-15 days.. On Wednesday, White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt said that there were very large differences between the parties.

Commentators recalled that before the attack on Iran's nuclear installations in June last year, Trump announced that he would make a decision within two weeks, while the attack occurred three days after this announcement. (PAP)

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