Trump Weighs Strike on Iran, Leaves Open Larger Assault

President Trump has told advisers that if diplomacy or an initial targeted strike does not compel Iran to abandon its nuclear program he would consider a much larger attack in coming months aimed at removing the country’s leaders. Negotiators from the United States and Iran are due to meet in Geneva on Thursday, even as two aircraft carrier groups and dozens of jets, bombers and refueling planes gather within striking distance.

No final decision has been made, but advisers say Mr. Trump has leaned toward an initial strike in the coming days to demonstrate that Iran must give up the ability to make a nuclear weapon. Targets under discussion range from the headquarters of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps to nuclear sites and the ballistic missile program.

In a White House Situation Room meeting he pressed military and intelligence officials, including Gen. Dan Caine and C.I.A. director John Ratcliffe, to outline operational options. There are significant questions about what can be achieved with strikes alone.

Iran, Geneva

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