New details have emerged about potential next steps in the Middle East conflict, with Donald Trump expected to receive a critical briefing on possible military action against Iran, according to a report by Axios.
The US president is due to be briefed on Thursday by the head of United States Central Command, Admiral Brad Cooper, on a range of contingency plans being considered by Washington in the event of further escalation with Tehran.
The briefing is seen as a sign that Trump is seriously considering the possibility of resuming large-scale military operations, either to break the current deadlock in negotiations or to deliver what sources describe as a “final blow” ahead of a potential end to the conflict.
Sources familiar with the planning said CENTCOM has already prepared a plan for a “short and powerful” wave of strikes targeting Iranian assets, potentially including critical infrastructure.
Pressure scenarios and military options
The objective of such an operation would be to force Tehran back to the negotiating table with a more flexible position, particularly on its nuclear programme. According to Axios, US officials are also examining a plan involving control of parts of the Strait of Hormuz to ensure uninterrupted commercial shipping. This could even involve the deployment of ground forces.
Another option under consideration is a special forces operation aimed at securing Iran’s stockpiles of highly enriched uranium.
As for current strategy, Trump is said to favour a naval blockade over air strikes as a more effective tool. However, military action remains on the table if Tehran does not shift its stance.
At the same time, US military analysts are assessing the likelihood of Iranian retaliation, including potential attacks on American forces in the wider region in response to any blockade.
Thursday’s briefing is also expected to include Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. The White House has not commented on the report.
Axios notes that a similar briefing took place in late February, shortly before the outbreak of the US–Israel conflict with Iran, which reportedly influenced Trump’s decision to pursue military involvement.
Source: protothema.gr