The United States has deployed key military assets, including an air carrier and additional bombers, to the Middle East in recent days. In the absence of a deal, Trump is “very likely” to authorize military action against Iran, said Brodsky, pointing to the president’s rhetoric and the US military buildup in the region. Brodsky said the objectives of military action would be to hold Iran accountable for its bloody crackdown on protesters, deter its behavior in the region, and erode its military capabilities. He added Trump could view "further military action as the prelude to an eventual deal down the line." Vatanka offered a more cautious assessment, arguing there are "still reasons for the United States to think twice."