US readies weekend strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure as Tehran warns of 'decisive response'

US prepares new strikes on Iran

President Donald Trump has authorized a large-scale military operation against Iranian energy infrastructure, with strikes possibly beginning this weekend, according to CBS and the Wall Street Journal. The attacks could last "several days," WSJ sources said, and follow a plan devised by Admiral Brad Cooper, head of US Central Command, for a roughly two-week campaign targeting sites previously off-limits. Trump has grown frustrated with diplomatic talks, calling Iranian negotiators "dishonest." The New York Times reported that some allies already speak of a strategic defeat that could strengthen not only Iran but also China and Russia.

Iran warns of 'decisive' retaliation

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held separate calls with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, Pakistani Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir, and his Saudi counterpart, warning against any "adventurous" US military action. He stressed Iran's full readiness to defend its sovereignty and respond firmly to any aggression. A senior Iranian security official told Tasnim news agency that Tehran has prepared a comprehensive response plan that includes "the vital infrastructure of the Zionist regime and US energy infrastructure in the region." Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf declared that Iran has "won the war with the US and Israel" but must consolidate that victory, and called for strengthening the executive power of Mojtaba Khamenei.

“We warn against any adventurous initiative by the US military. The Islamic Republic of Iran is fully ready to defend its national sovereignty, territorial integrity and security, and is determined to respond firmly to any aggression.”

Tanker struck near Strait of Hormuz

A tanker was hit by an "unidentified projectile" 11 nautical miles northeast of Lima, Oman, at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported. The vessel sustained damage to its engine room and was not under control. Regional coast guard was notified; no casualties or environmental impact were reported. The incident adds to already heightened tensions in the strategic waterway, where dozens of ships have been forced to stop or change course amid a naval blockade.

US embassies tell citizens to consider leaving

US diplomatic missions in Jordan, Iraq, the United Arab Emirates, Jerusalem, and Baghdad issued security alerts urging Americans in the region to "consider leaving" or be prepared to do so in case of escalation. The alerts cited a "complex" security environment with the possibility of "unforeseen escalation," potential flight cancellations, airspace closures, and other travel disruptions. The embassies warned that Iran and pro-Iranian groups could target US interests or sites associated with Americans worldwide, describing the Iranian regime as "unpredictable."

Israel raises alert, role in strikes unclear

The Israel Defense Forces raised its defense alert level but made no changes to guidelines for the civilian population. A senior Israeli official told CBS that Israel is "not aware of any decision to resume military operations against Iran" and has "not been asked to participate in any action." CNN reported no indication that Israel will join the US strikes, while ABC News said the attacks were discussed with Israeli officials but direct involvement remains uncertain. Israeli Channel 12 cited a source saying Iran might still strike Israel even without Israeli participation. The Washington Post reported that General Alexus Grynkewich, head of US forces in Europe, told the Pentagon he lacks sufficient naval assets to protect Israel from ballistic missile attacks.