Republican defense hawks are urging President Donald Trump to intensify military operations against Iran as the commander in chief weighs what he described as a "massive attack" that would exceed the scope of Operation Epic Fury.

Trump told Axios on Thursday that he is "close to making a decision" on whether to restart major combat operations but emphasized that no final order has been issued.

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"I am considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before. I am close to making a decision. We are all set for it," Trump said, adding that Israel "would join in two minutes" if asked but that the United States does not need additional partners to act.

Senate Armed Services Committee Chair Roger Wicker, R-Miss., has privately and publicly encouraged Trump to continue striking Iran, arguing Tehran has no intention of negotiating in good faith.

"I've expressed publicly and privately my approval of finishing the job," Wicker told The Hill. "Iran, in my judgment, has no intention of negotiating in good faith or keeping a promise."

Wicker also argued the United States can keep the Strait of Hormuz open "on our terms," calling control of the strategic waterway essential to ending the conflict successfully.

Several House Republicans echoed that message.

Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, said the U.S. should hit Iran "as hard as we possibly can," while Rep. Derrick Van Orden, R-Wis., argued only overwhelming military force can prevent Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon and permanently threatening global shipping.

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Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., said Iran — not the United States — must be the side seeking peace after suffering devastating military losses, while Rep. Rich McCormick, R-Ga., said decisive action could save lives and even lead to regime change that would reshape the Middle East.

The push comes as negotiations remain stalled and Iranian-backed Houthi terrorists continue attacking commercial shipping in the Red Sea.

Trump warned this week on Truth Social that Iran would be held responsible for any future Houthi attacks on vessels, describing the group as an Iranian proxy.

U.S. forces have carried out airstrikes against Iranian military targets for 13 consecutive days, hitting missile and drone facilities, command centers, air defenses, logistics infrastructure, and maritime capabilities.

Iran has retaliated by launching ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones against U.S. allies in the Gulf, including attacks targeting Kuwait and Jordan.

The escalating conflict has sent oil prices above $100 per barrel for the first time since May, while public support for the campaign has softened.

Reuters/Ipsos polling found only about one-quarter of Americans believe the conflict has been worth the cost, even as Trump insisted the military campaign is performing "better than anybody expected could be done."

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