Official US sources told CNN that the United States maintains military readiness for additional strikes on Iran if necessary, while diplomatic contacts are ongoing behind the scenes. The statement aligns with earlier US signals of parallel military and diplomatic tracks.
Official US sources told CNN on Friday that the United States is prepared to carry out additional strikes on Iran if necessary, while diplomatic contacts continue behind the scenes. The statement reinforces the dual-track approach Washington has signaled throughout the day, following a series of reports from Friday morning.
At 08:04 Jerusalem, The Zioneer reported that US officials said diplomacy is prioritized but preparations for more strikes continue. Simultaneously, another report at the same time noted that the commander of the USS Lincoln warned his crew: 'Things are heating up.' A third report at 08:04 stated that the US refrained from additional airstrikes on Thursday as part of de-escalation efforts. By 08:05 Jerusalem, The Zioneer published an article summarizing the dual-track posture. The latest CNN report confirms that the same stance remains in place as of Friday afternoon.
The Zioneer has previously covered the US parallel military and diplomatic strategy. On June 10, a senior White House official stated that military action and negotiations can proceed in parallel. On the same date, a senior US official said the operation continues with preparations for additional strikes. Earlier background reports noted that the US military is ready to respond to Iranian retaliation and to reimpose a blockade if ordered.
No specific timeline for additional strikes was given, and the sources emphasized that diplomacy remains active. The decision to launch further strikes appears contingent on the progress of behind-the-scenes talks, which remain ongoing.
4 developments
- ConfirmedSenior US official: Operation continues, ready for additional strikes
- StrongPentagon official: US ready to reimpose blockade on Iran if ordered
- DevelopingFox News: US military ready to respond if Iran decides to strike back
- DevelopingSenior Israeli official: Israel ready to join future US strikes on Iran if asked
Source and signal
- Internal intake