On the 23rd, US President Trump stated that US media reports claiming Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Kane opposed military strikes against Iran were untrue.
In a post on social media, he said he 'would rather reach an agreement (with Iran),' but if an agreement could not be reached, it would be a 'very bad day' for Iran.
He pointed out that the reports claiming Kane opposed US military action against Iran were '100 percent wrong,' and accused some media outlets of spreading fake news.
He stated that Kane, 'like all of us, does not want to see war,' but if the US side decided to take military action against Iran, Kane believes victory would be easily achieved. Kane has never said he was unwilling to go to war with Iran.
Trump also emphasized that the 'final decision on whether to take military action against Iran is in my hands.'
US Military Leaders Concerned Strike on Iran Could Become Prolonged Conflict
According to a report by the US news website Axios on the 23rd, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Kane reminded President Trump that military action against Iran might carry significant risks and could drag the US into a prolonged conflict.
Two sources told the outlet that Kane fully supported the US military action against Venezuela this January, but was more cautious during discussions regarding Iran. He believes that launching large-scale military action in Iran involves higher risk and could result in the US being bogged down and American casualties.
One of the sources stated that although Kane does not advocate launching a military strike against Iran, he would support and carry out any decision President Trump makes. Kane is not skeptical of military action itself, but maintains a 'clear and pragmatic' understanding of the chances of success and the consequences once war breaks out.
The report also said that US Vice President Vance had always doubted the risks and complexities of launching a military strike on Iran, but denied opposing the military action plan. US Secretary of State Rubio remained on the sidelines, neither strongly advocating for nor explicitly opposing the strike.
According to previous US media reports, on the 18th Trump held a meeting in the White House Situation Room to discuss plans for a strike on Iran. Attendees included Vance, Rubio, Kane, and CIA Director Ratcliffe.