The US military is developing new plans to strike Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz if the current ceasefire agreement fails, CNN reported, citing several US officials.
According to sources of the channel, the military is emphasizing “dynamic targeting“ of Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz, the southern Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This includes potential strikes against motorboats, minefields and other assets used by Tehran to block key waterways and put pressure on the United States.
Initially, the US bombing of Iran focused on targets far from the strait, but the new plans call for a more focused campaign around strategically important waterways. CNN notes that many of Iran's missile systems and small vessels remain operational, making it difficult to open the strait.
“Unless you can conclusively prove that 100% of Iran's military capabilities have been destroyed... it will all depend on how willing Trump is to take the risk and allow the ships to pass,“ said a source familiar with the plans.
The United States could also go back on Trump's initial threats and strike Iran's energy infrastructure to force Tehran to the negotiating table, the sources said. Another option includes targeted strikes against regime military leaders who oppose negotiations, including Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Commander Ahmad Vahidi.
“The U.S. military continues to present options to the president, and all options remain on the table,“ said Pentagon spokesman.
A two-week ceasefire between Iran and the United States was announced on April 8. The two sides later held talks in Islamabad but failed to reach an agreement on key points. Following the talks, the United States announced a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump later announced an indefinite extension of the ceasefire to seek a diplomatic solution to the conflict.
Meanwhile, in mid-April, The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing officials and sources, reported that the US president was considering resuming limited strikes against Iran in addition to the US blockade of Iranian ports. Another option would be to resume large-scale bombing; However, as the publication's sources note, this scenario is less likely due to the risk of further destabilization in the region and the president's reluctance to engage in prolonged military conflicts.