Farzin Nadimi, a senior researcher in defense and security affairs, said about the recent meetings between U.S. military commanders and Donald Trump that the direct presence of regional commanders in the White House is a sign of decision-making regarding an important military matter.

According to Nadimi, the increase in tensions, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps’ attacks on the U.S. fleet, and the buildup of military forces in the region also indicate that Washington’s recent moves could be the prelude to a major military action rather than merely being intended to pressure Tehran.