US military poised for possible strikes on Iran amid Tehran-Russia naval drills

GENEVA: The United States military is reportedly prepared to carry out potential strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, CNN reported on Tuesday, citing sources familiar with the matter, while Tehran and Moscow announced joint naval exercises in regional waters. The decision ultimately rests with US President Donald Trump.

The developments come amid Omani-mediated indirect talks between the US and Iran in Geneva, aimed at reducing the risk of military escalation. White House officials confirmed “a little bit of progress” but said key differences remain on some issues. Tehran is expected to provide additional details in the coming weeks.

The second round of negotiations follows the collapse of talks last year after Israel’s attack on Iran in June sparked a 12-day conflict. The discussions focus on Iran’s nuclear programme, while Washington has also previously pressed for restrictions on its ballistic missile programme.

According to CNN, the US military could be ready to act after building up sufficient air and naval resources in the Middle East. Trump has reportedly debated both for and against military action and consulted advisers and allies on the best course.

Reuters, citing an unnamed senior US official, reported that top US national security advisers met in the White House Situation Room on Wednesday. They were told that all US military forces deployed to the region should be in place by mid-March.

Tehran is also expected to submit a written proposal addressing US concerns following the Geneva talks. “We are currently waiting for that from the Iranians,” the official said.

Meanwhile, Iran has announced joint naval drills with Russia in the Sea of Oman and the northern Indian Ocean on Thursday. Hassan Maghsoodloo, an Iranian navy commander, told the semi-official Fars news agency that the exercises aim to “create convergence and coordination in joint measures to counter activities threatening maritime security and safety…as well as combating maritime terrorism.”

The US Federal Aviation Administration website also shows that Iran issued a notice to airmen (Notam) indicating planned rocket launches across southern regions of the country on Thursday.

The Notam system provides pilots, flight crews, and other users of airspace with safety information. The announcement comes as US Vice President JD Vance said Washington is weighing whether to continue diplomatic engagement with Tehran or pursue other options.

President Trump has ordered a major military buildup in the region, including the arrival of a second aircraft carrier group. “Full forces should be in place by mid-March,” a senior US official said.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel on February 28 to discuss Iran, reflecting the broader regional implications.

Tuesday’s indirect discussions in Geneva involved US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, alongside Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi. The talks aim to defuse mounting tensions, with Iran agreeing to provide a written proposal on how to address US concerns.

The developments come amid heightened US-Iran tensions following repeated threats by Trump to intervene militarily, first over a deadly crackdown on Iranian protesters last month and later over its nuclear programme.