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Trump Denies Report That U.S. Military Chief Warned of Risks in Attacking Iran, Affirms Leader as Final Decision-Maker

Foreign24 Feb 2026 08:39 GMT+7

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Trump Denies Report That U.S. Military Chief Warned of Risks in Attacking Iran, Affirms Leader as Final Decision-Maker

Trump denies reports that the U.S. military's top commander expressed concerns about the risks of initiating an attack on Iran, strongly affirming that if a war does occur, the U.S. would win easily.

Tensions between the U.S. and Iran remain worrisome after President Donald Trump denied reports that the U.S. military's top commander expressed concerns about the risks of launching an attack on Iran, firmly stating that if war breaks out, the U.S. would prevail easily.

This heated issue arose after several American media outlets reported that General Dan Keneally, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, warned of multiple risks in a large-scale military operation against Iran, including the possibility of prolonged conflict, shortages of weapons and equipment, and risks to U.S. and allied personnel.

Meanwhile, the U.S. leader posted on the Truth Social platform denying the reports as 100% false, stating that General Keneally did not oppose war with Iran in any way.

"General Keneally, like all of us, does not want to see war. But if a military decision against Iran is made, he believes we will win easily. He never said we should not attack Iran or even carry out a limited strike, as some fake news suggests. He only knows one thing: winning."

These words reflect Trump's hardline stance as he faces pressure both within his administration and on the international stage amid ongoing inconclusive nuclear negotiations.

The Washington Post reported that General Keneally expressed concerns to the White House and the Department of Defense that the U.S. might face weapon shortages and insufficient support from allies, which could increase risks to American troops in the region.

The Wall Street Journal reported that senior Pentagon officials warned of the risk that U.S. air defense systems could be depleted if an attack on Iran is launched.

Axios stated that General Keneally warned of the risk that the U.S. could become mired in a prolonged war in the Middle East again.

The same report noted that Steve Witkoff, Trump's negotiation representative, and Jared Kushner, Trump's son-in-law, are both pushing the president to delay any attack and allow diplomatic talks to continue.

However, Trump accused the media of producing erroneous and deliberately distorted reports.

Trump also reiterated that he is the ultimate decision-maker and prefers a deal over no deal, but if no agreement is reached, it will be a very bad day for that country and sad for its people.

Going back to 2018 during his first term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the Iran nuclear deal, and last year he ordered strikes on Iranian nuclear targets.

Most recently, Trump threatened further military action if new negotiations with Tehran fail to produce a replacement agreement.

A U.S. official revealed that the next round of talks with Iran is scheduled for this Thursday.

Amid war rumors, the U.S. has deployed large military forces to the Middle East, including two aircraft carriers, more than a dozen warships, numerous fighter jets, and other equipment to prepare for any scenario.

This move has intensified global scrutiny of the U.S.-Iran situation, especially regarding Middle East security and the impact on global energy stability.


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