The US is “close to war” with Iran, and a conflict could begin “very soon”, it has been reported. Axios is a US-based online news outlet that specialises in insider reporting from Washington and national security officials.

Senior American officials told Axios the White House is preparing for possible military action if nuclear negotiations with Tehran collapse. Sources said any strike would not be a limited raid but a large-scale campaign lasting weeks, likely carried out alongside Israel and targeting Iran’s nuclear facilities, missile sites and key regime infrastructure. Washington has already dramatically increased its military presence in the region, deploying aircraft carriers, warships and hundreds of fighter jets while more than 150 cargo flights have moved weapons and ammunition to Middle East bases. Diplomatic talks are continuing, but US officials are said to be pessimistic about reaching a deal, with Vice President JD Vance warning President Donald Trump has set “red lines” Iran has so far refused to accept. The administration previously held back from attacking earlier this year, instead combining negotiations with a major military build-up. However expectations have risen that force will be used if diplomacy fails.

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