US President Donald Trump is considering a strategy to quickly end military operations against Iran amid rising tensions in the Middle East, even if the Strait of Hormuz may not be fully reopened, international media reported, citing US administration sources.
According to the report, in recent meetings, Trump and his close advisers have reviewed the situation and concluded that a military operation to force the Strait of Hormuz would risk prolonging the conflict, potentially extending the war beyond its scheduled timeframe, complicating Washington’s strategic goals.
The current U.S. plan prioritizes weakening Iran’s naval capabilities and missile arsenal, followed by increasing diplomatic pressure to bring the situation under control. Officials believe that through a combination of military and diplomatic efforts, Iran can be forced to secure access to waterways for international trade.
However, if this strategy does not work, the United States could pressure European and Gulf allies to play a more active role in re-opening the strait.
Meanwhile, the United States is ramping up its military presence in the Middle East, despite ongoing talks to de-escalate the conflict. The US Navy’s special forces ship USS Tripoli and the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit have recently been deployed to the region, and additional ground forces are also being considered.
According to analysts, this dual position of continuing military preparations, despite indicating a quick end to the war, is making the future situation uncertain and could add new levels of tension across the region instead of reducing it.