WEB DESK: An American newspaper has claimed that the US Central Command (CENTCOM) has prepared a new wave of intense and rapid attacks on Iran, as Washington considers a return to large-scale combat operations to break the deadlock in negotiations or deliver a decisive final blow before the war is completely over.
According to the report, citing anonymous sources, CENTCOM has drawn up plans for a “short and powerful” wave of strikes on Iran, likely including key infrastructure targets. The goal is to force Tehran back to the negotiating table with greater flexibility, particularly over its nuclear programme.
Another proposal expected to be presented is focused on seizing control of part of the Strait of Hormuz to reopen it for commercial shipping, a move that could require the deployment of ground forces and mark a significant escalation of the conflict. A third option involves a special forces mission to secure Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium.
US military officials are scheduled to brief President Donald Trump today, led by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper. The Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Dan Caine, is also expected to attend the meeting. Moreover, President Trump reportedly shared a new map of the Strait of Hormuz, with the strategic waterway renamed “Trump Strait” on the image.
While a fragile ceasefire has been in place for three weeks, talks remain stalled. Trump has viewed a naval blockade of Iran as his primary source of leverage, telling Axios it is “somewhat more effective than bombing”. However, the Pentagon is also preparing for the possibility of Iranian retaliation against US forces in the region should any new strike or seizure plan be approved.
