Washington — The Pentagon is reportedly urging U.S. President Donald Trump to reconsider any move toward a prolonged military strike on Iran, warning that such action could trigger heavy American and allied casualties, strain air defenses, and overstretch U.S. forces.
According to a report by The Wall Street Journal, senior defense officials have expressed deep concerns over proposed war plans, cautioning that an extended campaign against the Middle Eastern power could spiral into a costly and unpredictable conflict.
At the center of the internal warnings is Gen. Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who has reportedly raised red flags during Defense Department briefings and National Security Council meetings. Current and former officials told the publication that other Pentagon leaders share similar apprehensions.
Defense officials are said to be worried that any sustained offensive against Iran could lead to retaliatory strikes targeting U.S. personnel and allied assets across the region. There are also fears that America’s already stretched air defense systems could be depleted in the process, weakening broader strategic readiness.
The discussions highlight growing unease within military circles about the long-term implications of escalating tensions with Tehran, especially amid ongoing global security commitments.
While no final decision has been announced, the reported caution from top military brass underscores the delicate balance between deterrence and escalation in U.S. foreign policy.
Analysts say the Pentagon’s warnings reflect lessons drawn from previous prolonged conflicts, where initial tactical gains evolved into extended engagements with mounting human and financial costs.
As Washington weighs its options, the debate signals that any potential military move against Iran would not come without serious internal scrutiny — and high stakes for U.S. forces and its allies worldwide.
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