
US President Donald Trump stated in an exclusive interview with Axios that he is seriously considering launching a new military operation against Iran, which, according to him, would be larger than the previous attacks carried out during Operation "Epic Fury".
However, he stressed that he has not yet made a final decision.
"I'm considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before. I'm close to making a decision. We're fully prepared for it," Trump was quoted as saying by Axios.
According to two American officials quoted by the media, no new orders have been given to the US military so far.
Trump also stated that Israel would join the operation "within two minutes" if the US requested it, but added that Washington is also capable of acting alone.
He warned that Israel's involvement could have consequences, hinting that Iran could retaliate against it.
According to reports, the US administration has intensified military operations in recent days following attacks on merchant ships in the Strait of Hormuz.
Trump also accused Iran of supporting Houthi rebels in Yemen and warned that any new attacks by them on ships in the Red Sea would be considered Tehran's responsibility.
Regional sources cited by Axios said Iran has not yet accepted the latest proposal for negotiations, while Trump said Tehran wants to negotiate but is not yet ready for a deal.