Top U.S. officials urged caution on escalating the conflict with Iran, according to CNN, as President Donald Trump considered expanding military operations during a White House meeting on Friday.
Key developments include:
- Vice President JD Vance and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine reportedly expressed concerns about further escalation.
- Gen. Caine warned about declining U.S. munitions stockpiles and outlined potential military and strategic consequences of a larger campaign, while saying the military could execute the available options if ordered.
- Officials also reportedly discussed the risk of significant civilian casualties if the U.S. expanded strikes, particularly if attacks targeted civilian infrastructure such as roads, bridges, or power plants.
- According to a Department of Defense source cited by CNN, the U.S. paused its bombing campaign on Friday night after nearly two weeks of nightly strikes. It remains unclear whether the concerns raised during the meeting directly influenced that decision.
- White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said President Trump continues to prefer a diplomatic solution but “retains all options” if Iran continues actions in the Strait of Hormuz or against U.S. allies.
- Trump told reporters the administration was continuing negotiations with Iran, while also saying military action could continue or become more intense if necessary.
- CNN reported that Gulf countries have encouraged restraint, though they acknowledged the U.S. possesses capabilities to significantly escalate the conflict if it chooses.
- U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said American weapons stockpiles have been reduced by support for Ukraine and operations against the Houthis, but that the administration is rebuilding inventories.
- Democratic lawmakers criticized the administration’s approach. Sen. Chris Van Hollen argued the conflict has depleted missile interceptors needed to protect U.S. forces and called for ending the war.
- Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell said the U.S. military remains fully capable of carrying out any mission ordered by the president and retains a “deep arsenal” to protect U.S. interests.
Overall, the report describes an internal debate within the administration between maintaining military pressure on Iran and avoiding a broader conflict that could strain U.S. military resources, increase civilian casualties, and complicate diplomatic efforts.
