What did the Wall Street Journal report about Trump's order regarding Iran, and what is the stated objective of the planned attack?

The Wall Street Journal reported that President Donald Trump has ordered the US military to carry out a new attack on Iran 'as soon as this weekend', citing unnamed US officials; the strikes are intended 'to convince Tehran to surrender'.

According to the news body, what specific types of infrastructure is the US reportedly considering striking in Iran, and why do advocacy groups consider such actions potentially illegal?

CBS reported that the US is considering striking Iranian energy infrastructure, including oil refineries and power plants — a move described as a 'major escalation'; advocacy groups warn that deliberate bombing of civilian targets 'could be considered war crimes'.

Trump Orders Iran Attack as Soon as This Weekend, WSJ Says

Jul 31, 2026

President Trump reportedly ordered military strikes on Iran this weekend, potentially targeting energy infrastructure, causing WTI crude oil prices to rise above $86 per barrel amid fears of supply disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz.

bloomberg

2026-07-31

Trump Orders Iran Attack as Soon as This Weekend, WSJ Says

2026-08-09

Trump Signals US Reliance on Economic Pressure Over Iran Amid Hormuz Tensions

Trump Orders Iran Attack as Soon as This Weekend, WSJ Says

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