WASHINGTON: Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine has privately urged senior Trump administration officials to seek an “off-ramp” from the US war with Iran, warning that available military options could carry serious risks and that airpower alone is unlikely to achieve President Donald Trump’s stated objectives, according to CNN.
Over recent weeks, Caine has discussed his concerns with senior officials, including CIA Director John Ratcliffe, Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Vice President JD Vance, according to three sources familiar with the discussions cited by CNN.
One source told CNN bluntly that “Caine is looking for an off ramp,” describing the general’s efforts as an attempt to ensure senior officials understand the limitations and potential consequences of further military escalation.
Caine has reportedly sought to coordinate with like-minded officials ahead of meetings with Trump, including discussions about military options that would not require deploying US ground troops.
A source described the general’s approach as an effort to protect the US military from becoming further entangled in a prolonged conflict.
‘Airpower Has Its Limits’
Caine and other senior officials reportedly believe that intensified airstrikes alone are unlikely to force Tehran to accept a deal on Washington’s terms.
Caine himself told lawmakers during a public hearing last month that “airpower has its limits”, according to CNN.
Trump has repeatedly signalled opposition to deploying US ground forces in Iran and has instead suggested that sustained airstrikes could compel Tehran to reach an agreement.
The military and other administration officials, however, have been examining alternatives that could fit within the president’s stated limits while avoiding a potentially costly ground operation.
Concerns Over US Weapons Stocks
Another major concern is the depletion of US military stockpiles after months of fighting.
CNN reported that senior US military commanders believe stocks of some key munitions are “dangerously low”. Caine has raised the issue during at least two recent meetings with Trump, where options for escalating the conflict were discussed.
The shortage has also prompted the Pentagon and US Central Command to reassess aspects of the military strategy and seek new ways to pressure Iran.
Trump Warned Of Military Risks
Caine has also been careful in presenting his concerns directly to Trump while maintaining the president’s confidence.
During a recent White House meeting, Caine outlined potential risks associated with further escalation, including depleted weapons stocks. At the same time, he made clear that the US military retained the capability to inflict substantial damage on Iran should Trump order a larger operation.
The balancing act reflects Caine’s effort to provide Trump with military options while warning of their potential consequences, according to sources cited by CNN.
Search For Diplomatic Exit
The growing concerns come as the conflict approaches its six-month mark, with officials increasingly focused on finding a way to reduce the fighting without appearing to concede defeat.
According to CNN, discussions are centred on finding an “off-ramp” that could allow Trump to claim a political or symbolic victory while preserving the possibility of a diplomatic breakthrough.
One potential starting point could be an agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which would ease regional tensions and address one of the conflict’s most consequential economic and security issues.
Caine’s spokesperson Joseph Holstead said the general’s confidential conversations with the president, defence secretary and other senior officials were not discussed publicly and rejected anonymous characterisations of those discussions.
The White House praised Caine’s role in the administration, saying he provides Trump with “accurate, unbiased information” and a range of options, while the president ultimately makes decisions based on what he considers best for US national security.
