Informed media sources have revealed that the US military establishment is developing initial operational plans for potential military options in the Strait of Hormuz region. These moves come amid growing fears of a collapse of the existing ceasefire agreement with Iran, which could reignite tensions in one of the world's most vital waterways.
Sources reported that military planning circles in Washington are currently working to update confrontation scenarios to include specific targets within the waters of the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. These plans focus on neutralizing Iranian naval capabilities that could be used to disrupt international navigation or threaten commercial vessels.
The proposed options include what is known as 'dynamic targeting' of Revolutionary Guard naval units, including fast boats and naval mine-laying platforms. This strategy aims to ensure that waterways remain open for the flow of global energy supplies under all circumstances.
According to reports, the new approach represents a shift in US military thinking, which previously focused on striking targets deep inside Iran. Now, the focus appears to have shifted towards field control of the Strait of Hormuz and the destruction of naval infrastructure that could impede freedom of navigation.
Sources indicate that planning takes into account the readiness of a large part of Iran's coastal defense systems and 'shore-to-sea' missiles. This complicates any military operation and pushes planners to seek ways to reduce risks to US forces stationed in the region.
The US administration is also considering expanding the target bank to include dual-use facilities and critical infrastructure to push Tehran to the negotiating table. However, officials warned that this option could lead to an uncalculated escalation throughout the region.
Among the most sensitive options being studied is targeting prominent military leaders in the Iranian Revolutionary Guard who are believed to be obstructing the diplomatic path. This step, if approved, aims to weaken decision-making centers within the Iranian regime and undermine its ability to manage naval confrontation.
In an official comment, a US Department of Defense (Pentagon) official stated that the department does not usually disclose details of future or hypothetical plans. The official affirmed that all options remain on the table for the President to make the appropriate decision based on field developments.
The US administration is experiencing internal division between a faction advocating for avoiding military escalation and adhering to de-escalation, and another faction that sees the necessity of full preparation for the collapse of the agreement. This debate comes at a time when the Strait of Hormuz has witnessed relative calm since the ceasefire came into effect on April 7th.
Observers believe that any confrontation in the Strait will immediately impact global energy prices and the already strained international economy. Washington fears that Tehran might use the Strait as leverage to pressure the international community if sanctions are renewed or diplomatic efforts fail.
On the ground, US naval forces continue to strengthen their presence in the vicinity of the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean through precise monitoring operations. These moves include redirecting some warships to ensure rapid response in the event of any security emergency threatening commercial vessels.
Sources confirm that the success of any future military plan will largely depend on assessing the level of escalation that President Donald Trump can tolerate. The final decision to use force will be subject to complex political calculations related to elections and the US domestic situation.
In contrast, Iranian capabilities in naval guerrilla warfare continue to pose a significant challenge to any regular force attempting to control the Strait. Small boats and mobile missile systems give Tehran the ability to maneuver and respond quickly in narrow waterways.
Reports concluded that the absence of a comprehensive and sustainable diplomatic solution will keep the region on the brink for a long time. The Strait of Hormuz will remain the main arena for any potential conflict, making it a focal point in the new US military strategy towards the Middle East.
All options remain open to the President, and the Department does not publicly discuss future or hypothetical plans.
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Washington develops military plans for a potential confrontation in the Strait of Hormuz