Pentagon has warned over an extended Iran strike (Image: AP/File photo) Behind closed doors, the Pentagon is warning US President Trump against rushing into a military campaign against Iran. As per a report, General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, has flagged concerns about risks ranging from American and allied casualties to strained missile defences and an overstretched force. The report by Wall Street Journal states that other senior defence leaders share similar reservations. It needs to be noted, however, that such warnings are part of standard practice before any military action. Senior officers are tasked with laying out the worst-case scenarios, including casualties and potential fallout. As Washington weighs options from limited strikes to a sustained military campaign, officials stress that an extended operation could inflict a heavy toll on the US troops and rapidly drain ammo supplies. A drawn-out conflict could also complicate Washington's ability to shield regional partners if Tehran hits back. Officials say that the Joint Chiefs Chair's assessment would factor into Trump's final decision. The US has already built up its largest concentration of military power in the Middle East since the 2003 Iraq war, deploying two carrier strike groups in the Mediterranean. White House spokeswoman Anna Kelly defended Caine's role, stating: "General Caine is a highly respected professional whose job requires providing unbiased information to the Commander in Chief, which he does perfectly." She added: "President Trump listens to feedback from all members of his national security team, and he is always the final decision maker." Trump, responding on Truth Social, wrote: "General Caine, like all of us, would like not to see War but, if a decision is made on going against Iran at a Military level, it is his opinion that it will be something easily won." Even as military options are reviewed, Washington continues to hold talks with Tehran aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear ambitions, ballistic-missile program and support for proxy groups such as Hezbollah and Hamas. Iranian leaders deny seeking a nuclear weapon. Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from US News and around the World. Diana George is Associate Editor at Times Now, with over a decade of experience covering national and international news, crime, and local politics. S... View More