US weighs fresh Iran strikes under new name (Img: Internet)
Washington: US President Donald Trump is reportedly considering fresh military action against Iran if the current ceasefire collapses, with officials discussing a possible new operational name “Operation Sledgehammer”.
The developments emerged shortly after Trump concluded his visit to China, where he held high-level talks with Xi Jinping on regional conflicts, trade and global security issues.
According to reports citing US officials, the military is reviewing multiple contingency plans as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain unresolved despite ongoing diplomatic efforts.
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The US had earlier paused its military campaign, known as “Operation Epic Fury”, after reaching a ceasefire understanding with Iran in April to allow diplomatic negotiations to continue.
However, NBC News reported that if the ceasefire breaks down and large-scale military operations resume, officials are considering renaming the campaign “Operation Sledgehammer”. Sources said the name is among several options currently being discussed within the administration.
The report suggested that discussions around a new operation indicate growing concern inside Washington that the conflict could intensify again in the coming weeks.
The ceasefire has remained fragile as disagreements continue over the Strait of Hormuz and Iran’s nuclear programme.
The US shifted from direct strikes to a blockade strategy targeting Iranian ports, while Tehran responded by refusing to fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz unless the blockade is lifted.
Trump has repeatedly insisted that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons and has demanded the removal of highly enriched uranium from the country. Iran, however, maintains that its nuclear programme is intended for peaceful purposes.
During Trump’s visit to Beijing, both he and Xi reportedly agreed that the strategically important strait should remain open.
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Reports also indicated that the US and Israel have started preparing for the possibility of renewed attacks on Iran if negotiations fail.
Among the military options reportedly under consideration are expanded airstrikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure and the possible deployment of special operations forces to target underground nuclear facilities. Meanwhile, senior Iranian officials have warned that the country’s armed forces are prepared to respond strongly to any renewed aggression.
