US Officials Raise Concerns Over Escalating Iran War

US Vice President JD Vance and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine reportedly raised concerns about expanding the war with Iran during a meeting with President Donald Trump at the White House.

According to sources familiar with the meeting, Gen. Caine warned about the pressure continued military operations could put on US weapons supplies. He told Trump that the US military had the ability to carry out the available options, but also pointed to the possible consequences of further escalation.

The concerns came as the United States appeared to pause its bombing campaign against Iran after nearly two weeks of strikes. A US Defense Department source said the military operations were currently “on hold.”

It remains unclear whether concerns over weapons stockpiles and the risks of escalation were the main reasons behind the pause or whether the US will resume its strikes.

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said President Trump still prefers a diplomatic solution but is prepared to consider other options if Iran continues what Washington describes as hostile activities.

Trump also said that US officials were continuing talks with Iran. He suggested that the military campaign could either remain paused or become more intense, while claiming that Iran appeared to be taking negotiations more seriously.

Gulf countries have reportedly urged the US administration to show restraint. At the same time, Trump has privately told his negotiators to keep talking with Iran, even as he considers possible military options.

Several people close to the president and Pentagon officials reportedly believe that expanding the military campaign may not achieve the results Trump wants.

The Pentagon, however, said the US military remains fully prepared and has enough capabilities to protect American interests and carry out operations if ordered by the president.