A Reuters report, quoting two US officials, said US military planning on Iran has reached an advanced stage with options including targeting individuals as part of an attack and even pursuing regime change in Tehran, if ordered by President Donald Trump. One of the US officials reportedly noted Israel's success targeting Iranian leaders during its 12-day war with Iran last year. "What we are now talking about is how to make sure that Iran's nuclear programme, including enrichment, is peaceful and would remain peaceful forever," he added. For its part, Iran is attempting to secure the removal of international sanctions that have severely hampered its domestic economy. The (Israeli military) is on defensive alert," army spokesman Brigadier General Effie Defrin said in a video statement published Friday.

Source: Mint February 20, 2026 17:32 UTC