Trump says he is 'close' to ordering massive attack on Iran, larger than Operation Epic Fury

Trump's Axios interview

Donald Trump told Axios on 23 July 2026 that he is seriously considering resuming large-scale military operations against Iran, including strikes that would be larger than those carried out during Operation Epic Fury. The US president said he is close to a decision but has not yet made one, and he set no deadline. Two US officials confirmed that no new orders have been given to the armed forces.

I'm thinking about a massive attack. Bigger than ever. I'm close to making a decision. We are ready for it.

Trump acknowledged that such a move would carry consequences, though he did not elaborate on what those might be. The interview comes as the US has intensified daily strikes on Iranian targets over the past 12 days, aiming to stop Iranian attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

Military readiness and Israeli role

While no final order has been issued, the Pentagon has been positioning additional warplanes and refuelling aircraft in Israel, according to the reports. Trump said Israel would participate "in two minutes" if asked, but he stressed that the United States does not need any partner to launch a new operation. He also noted that Israeli involvement would bring "consequences," a reference to likely Iranian retaliation against Israel.

They would say yes in two minutes if I asked them, but we don't need anyone.

The prospect of a full-scale war remains deeply unpopular among the American public, even as the administration escalates military pressure on Tehran.

Iranian response and negotiations

Iranian armed forces spokesperson Mohammad Akraminia told state television that retaliatory operations will continue as long as American attacks persist, and that Iran is prepared for "any possible scenario" against its adversaries. Trump claimed that Iran wants to negotiate but is not yet ready to reach an agreement, adding that "they haven't suffered enough pain yet."

They haven't suffered enough pain yet.

Two regional sources familiar with mediation efforts said the Iranian leadership has rejected the latest proposal put forward. One source described the situation bluntly: "We are trying, but the Iranians are not helping."

Regional escalation and oil markets

The current escalation has already pushed crude oil prices above $100 per barrel. Houthi rebels in Yemen, who are backed by Iran, have begun attacking Saudi vessels in the Red Sea, opening a second front on a critical oil transit route and deepening instability in global energy markets. The US has been striking Iranian positions daily in an effort to halt the attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, but Iran has shown no sign of changing course.

What's next

Trump also issued a direct warning to Iran over the Houthis, saying Tehran will be held responsible for any new attacks by the Yemeni group and will face "serious military consequences" alongside the Houthis themselves. On the diplomatic front, Trump mentioned that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to attend the memorial service for the late Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington, and that the two leaders would meet if Netanyahu is in the city. No timeline for a decision on the strike has been given, and officials stress that all options remain on the table.