US President Donald Trump has instructed for a major military strike against Iran following persistent lobbying efforts from key allies in the region. Trump indicated that the conflict could last for weeks, but the precise aim of the operation has not been defined. This military action comes amid tensions amplified by calls from US allies who are concerned about Iran's influence in the Middle East.

According to four officials familiar with the situation, the lobbying efforts led by Israel and Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in pushing the US into taking this aggressive stance against Iran. This coordinated effort reportedly aimed at removing Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, who has been in power for nearly four decades. The involvement of these allies suggests a broader regional strategy to counter Iran's influence, which has been a concern for both Israel and Saudi Arabia for years.

In recent weeks, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has reached out to Trump multiple times to express support for the US strike, despite publicly advocating for a diplomatic resolution. A Saudi official claimed that Riyadh has not pressured the Trump administration to change its policy regarding Iran in their conversations. Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has continued his long-standing campaign to push the US towards military action against Iran, framing the situation as existential for his country.