World News

Trump weighs renewed Iran strikes as ex-Pentagon official doubts strategic gains

Reported three-day bombing plans target energy infrastructure, while the Pentagon puts the Iran war cost at $47.1 billion.

Updated Oct 29, 2026 · 02:24 UTC2 reports

The short version

Trump says he is weighing whether to strike Iran again or pursue a negotiated settlement.[The Washington Sun]
U.S. and Israeli militaries have reportedly drafted a three-day bombing campaign with an expanded target list that includes energy infrastructure.[The Washington Sun]
Former Pentagon official Jason Campbell questions whether airstrikes could bring strategic change.[The Washington Sun]
Iranian officials say renewed attacks would not change Tehran's position.[The Washington Sun]

Trump has said he is weighing whether to strike Iran again or pursue a negotiated settlement.[The Washington Sun]
U.S. and Israeli militaries have reportedly developed plans for an intensive three-day bombing campaign against Iran, with an expanded target list that includes energy infrastructure.[The Washington Sun]
The Pentagon's latest estimate provided to Congress puts the cost of the Iran war to American taxpayers at $47.1 billion.[Associated Press]
Jason Campbell, a former Pentagon official now at the Middle East Institute, said U.S. military options appear confined to airstrikes.[The Washington Sun]
Iranian officials have warned that renewed attacks would not force Tehran to change its position.[The Washington Sun]

Trump has not decided between renewed strikes and a negotiated settlement, so the outcome remains unknown.[The Washington Sun]
The strategic effect of renewed strikes is disputed, and the reported bombing plans remain unconfirmed by official announcement.[The Washington Sun]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.