Washington, United States. President Donald Trump is expected to receive a briefing on Thursday from U.S. Central Command leader Brad Cooper on new plans for potential military action against Iran, Axios reported on Wednesday. The report cited unidentified sources.
Axios report and official responses
Axios said the White House and the U.S. Central Command did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
Reported strike plan
CENTCOM has prepared a plan for a “short and powerful” wave of strikes on Iran, likely including infrastructure targets, Axios reported, citing sources.
Ceasefire and conflict background
A fragile ceasefire in the Iran war began three weeks ago. The war began when the U.S. and Israel attacked Iran on February 28, and Iran responded with its own strikes on Israel and Gulf states with U.S. bases.
Reported toll and regional operations
U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran and Israeli attacks in Lebanon have killed thousands and displaced millions.
Infrastructure threats and international law concerns
Trump has previously threatened to destroy Iran’s civilian infrastructure. International law experts say such strikes may amount to war crimes, and the 1949 Geneva Conventions prohibit attacks on sites considered essential for civilians.
Strait of Hormuz option
Another plan expected to be shared with Trump is focused on taking over part of the Strait of Hormuz to reopen it to commercial shipping, the report said, adding that such an operation may involve ground forces.
Market impact and shipping disruption
The Iran war, which remains unpopular in the U.S., has shaken markets and raised oil prices. The war has brought traffic through the strait, a chokepoint for about 20% of global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments, close to a standstill.
Negotiating aims and uranium stockpile option
Washington hopes to make Iran more flexible at the negotiating table on nuclear issues, Axios reported. Another option that might come up in the briefing is a special forces operation to secure Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, Axios said.
What do you think the United States should prioritize in its approach to the Iran war?