US-Iran tensions escalate: Trump holds emergency White House meeting, military on high alert

Tensions between the United States and Iran have once again reached a dangerous level, with reports suggesting that President Donald Trump is preparing for possible new military strikes against Iran. While diplomatic communication between the two countries has not been completely cut off, sudden activity inside the White House and the Pentagon has intensified fears of a major military confrontation.

According to reports, US President Trump convened a high-level security meeting at the White House on Friday with senior military and intelligence officials. The meeting was attended by Vice President JD Vance, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. Reports claim that Memorial Day leave for some US military personnel has been cancelled, while American bases overseas have been instructed to remain on high alert.

Amid the growing tensions, Trump has also reportedly cancelled all private engagements. He was expected to travel to New Jersey but instead returned to Washington. Reports further suggest that he even dropped plans to attend the wedding of his son, Donald Trump Jr.. Posting on social media platform Truth Social, Trump wrote that “because of the government situation and my love for America,” it was necessary for him to remain at the White House. Concerns escalated further after one of Trump’s close advisers shared footage of B-2 stealth bombers on social media.

Trump’s stance on Iran appears to have hardened significantly within days. Earlier this week, he had reportedly indicated to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that diplomatic efforts should continue. However, by Thursday night, his tone had shifted sharply. On Friday, Trump stated that Iran was “desperate to make a deal” and insisted that Tehran “cannot have a nuclear weapon under any circumstances.”

As Washington signals possible military action, regional powers have reportedly intensified backchannel diplomacy to prevent a wider conflict. Countries such as Pakistan and Qatar are said to be engaged in behind-the-scenes negotiations. Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir has reportedly travelled to Tehran as part of urgent diplomatic efforts. Meanwhile, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio is currently visiting India amid the escalating geopolitical tensions.