In an interview with Axios on the 23rd (local time), U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he is considering a "massive attack" on Iran, claiming that the country "has not suffered enough yet."

Although President Trump has not yet made a final decision, he indicated that if Tehran continues to refuse negotiations while attacking international shipping, the military is prepared to launch an operation of a larger scale than "Operation Epic Fury."

President Trump told Axios, "I am considering a massive attack. Larger than anything before. I am on the verge of making a decision. We have finished all preparations."

President Trump remarked, "If I asked, Israel would join in two minutes," adding, "We don't need anyone's help," while asserting the capability to act unilaterally.

President Trump also cautioned that Israel's involvement could trigger further retaliation from Iran, emphasizing the risks associated with escalating military operations.

These remarks come as U.S. officials revealed to Axios that no final order has been issued, despite military preparations intensifying across the Middle East and ongoing airstrikes against Iran.

President Trump acknowledged that a large-scale offensive would result in significant consequences but stated that Iran has yet to demonstrate a willingness to negotiate.

He said, "They haven't suffered enough yet."

The Wall Street Journal reported on the night of the 22nd (Wednesday) that the Department of War has significantly increased the deployment of special operations forces, fighter jets, bombers, aerial refueling assets, and medical personnel to the region, ensuring broader military options should President Trump approve further airstrikes.

This military buildup follows a two-week intensification of U.S. offensives aimed at weakening Iran's capability to threaten merchant vessels, following repeated Iranian attacks on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, a strategic waterway.

The conflict escalated further after Houthi rebels, backed by Iran, claimed responsibility for an attack on a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea. This raised concerns over potential disruptions at another critical global shipping chokepoint, leading to a sharp rise in international oil prices.

On Thursday morning, President Trump warned via Truth Social that the U.S. would hold Iran directly responsible should the Houthis attack merchant vessels in the future. He referred to the militant group as an Iranian proxy and vowed to carry out "massive military retribution" against both Tehran and the Houthi rebels.

This military reinforcement comes amidst concerns from some Republican lawmakers regarding the financial costs and duration of the conflict, though administration officials maintain that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons remains a core U.S. national security objective.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio also supported the administration's stance, noting that Iran has shown little interest in reaching a deal, suggesting that maintaining military pressure may be necessary.

Despite the hawkish rhetoric, President Trump mentioned that a diplomatic solution remains possible if Iran changes its position.

However, for the time being, he signaled that the White House is prepared to dramatically escalate the situation if Tehran continues its attacks and refuses efforts to end the conflict.

U.S. NNP = Representative Reporter Hong Sung-gu / Special Correspondent for NNP info@newsandpost.com