US plans fresh strikes on Iran as soon as this weekend, officials say

Israel, a key US ally in the region, has also signaled growing impatience with Iran's nuclear advances. Israeli officials have publicly stated that they will act if necessary to prevent Tehran from crossing what they describe as a nuclear threshold. Coordination between Washington and Jerusalem on potential targets has reportedly intensified in recent days, though officials declined to discuss operational details.

Iran's proxy network and regional risks

Iran's network of proxy forces across the region remains a central concern for US planners. Groups backed by Iran in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen have carried out attacks on US personnel and allies in recent years. Strikes on Iranian targets could prompt retaliation from these militias, complicating an already volatile security picture.

The potential strikes would come against the backdrop of broader US diplomatic and humanitarian efforts elsewhere in the Middle East. A charter draft for a new international body, the Board of Peace, obtained by CNN, describes the organization as promoting stability, peace and governance "in areas affected or threatened by conflict." Trump is set to serve as chairman of the board indefinitely, according to the charter, possibly holding the post beyond his second term as president.

Broader Middle East diplomacy

The proposed Board of Peace charter also outlines plans for Gaza, including the decommissioning and storage of weapons owned by militias that will not be integrated into Gaza's new police or security services. According to the plan, "weapons owned by militias, who will not be integrated into Gaza's new police or security services, shall be 'decommissioned and stored under NCAG authority.'" A process to decommission heavy weapons, military production sites and tunnels will begin after the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza enters the territory and an International Stabilization Force deploys.

The juxtaposition of diplomatic planning and potential military action underscores the breadth of US engagement in the region. Officials say the weekend strike option remains under active review and could be deferred if diplomatic conditions change. Congressional leaders have not yet been formally briefed on the timing, according to people familiar with the discussions.

Regional and international response

Regional capitals from Riyadh to Baghdad are closely monitoring the situation. Several Gulf states have urged restraint, fearing that a new round of strikes could destabilize their own territories and disrupt ongoing de-escalation efforts. Iran has warned that any attack on its soil will be met with a firm response, raising the specter of a broader regional conflict.

The reports come as CNN and other outlets continue to track the movements of US naval and air assets in the Persian Gulf. Satellite imagery reviewed by analysts suggests a notable buildup of strike-capable platforms near Iran. US Central Command has declined to comment on specific force movements, citing operational security.

Analysts caution that even a limited strike could set off a cycle of escalation that would be difficult to contain. Iran's missile forces and proxy network retain the capacity to target US bases and allies across the region. The economic impact, particularly on global energy markets, would likely be felt within hours of any attack.

For now, officials stress that no final decision has been made and that the weekend window is subject to change. The White House has not publicly confirmed the planning, and the Pentagon has referred questions to the National Security Council. The coming hours are expected to bring greater clarity on whether the United States will move from planning to action.