US General Alarmed by Trump’s Iran Attack Plan – Feb 2026

US-Turkey Relations Under Scrutiny as Trump Considers Iran Strike

Washington DC – Concerns are mounting within the Pentagon regarding President Donald Trump’s potential plans for a prolonged military campaign against Iran. These concerns, relayed by senior Defense Department officials, center around potential casualties, strained defense resources, and the risk of escalating regional conflict.

Rising Tensions and Military Preparations

The warnings, reportedly led by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, have been discussed in internal Pentagon meetings and with the National Security Council. Military planners are evaluating a range of options, from limited strikes to a larger-scale air campaign aimed at weakening or removing Iran’s leadership.

Currently, the US has deployed a significant air and naval force to the Middle East, rivaling levels seen since the 2003 Iraq War, including two aircraft carrier strike groups. The State Department has also begun evacuating non-essential personnel and family members from the US embassy in Lebanon, signaling heightened tensions.

Strain on US Defense Capabilities

A key concern raised by the Pentagon is the potential depletion of critical defense systems. Stocks of interceptor systems like Patriot, THAAD, and SM-3 are reportedly dwindling. Extensive use of these systems in the Middle East could compromise US readiness to respond to future conflicts, particularly with China.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has threatened retaliation for any attack, stating Iranian forces are capable of targeting US warships. The US anticipates Iran will utilize its missile arsenal and proxy groups throughout the region in response to any military action.

Trump’s Approach and Caine’s Reservations

President Trump has signaled a willingness to consider military options, but faces internal pushback. General Caine has reportedly expressed reservations about the potential consequences of a large-scale operation. The Wall Street Journal reported on these concerns on February 23, 2026.

Despite these concerns, President Trump maintains confidence in his strategy.

Recent US-Turkey Meeting and Regional Implications

These developments unfold following a recent meeting between President Trump and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan at the White House on September 25, 2025 – the first such meeting since 2019. General Caine attended the Oval Office meeting. The meeting touched upon trade, military equipment sales, and global conflicts. Even as the relationship between the US and Turkey has faced strains in recent years, particularly due to Turkey’s trade with Russia, both leaders sought to present a positive front.

The potential for a US strike on Iran adds another layer of complexity to the US-Turkey relationship, given Turkey’s regional interests and its own complex relationship with Iran.

FAQ

What are the main concerns regarding a US strike on Iran?

The primary concerns are potential US and allied casualties, depletion of defense resources, and the risk of a wider regional conflict.

Who is raising concerns about a potential strike?

Senior officials within the Pentagon, led by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, have expressed reservations.

What was discussed during the recent US-Turkey meeting?

The meeting between President Trump and President Erdogan covered trade, military equipment sales, and global conflicts.

Is the US military prepared for a conflict with Iran?

The US has deployed significant military assets to the region, but concerns remain about the sustainability of a prolonged campaign and the strain on defense resources.

What is Turkey’s role in this situation?

Turkey’s regional interests and its relationship with Iran add complexity to the situation, and the recent meeting with President Trump suggests ongoing dialogue regarding regional security.