Trump reviews new military strike options against Iran

Istanbul (ANTARA) - US President Donald Trump is reportedly due to receive an explanation on Thursday (30/4) about new plans related to the possibility of military action against Iran. Citing several sources, Axios reported that the presentation by US Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper indicates Trump is seriously considering launching major combat operations once again. That step is described as an effort to break the negotiation deadlock or to apply final pressure on Iran before ending the conflict. According to the report, CENTCOM has drawn up plans for “short but intense” strikes with the possibility of targeting Iranian infrastructure to encourage the country to return to the negotiating table with a more flexible attitude, particularly regarding nuclear issues. Other options to be presented include the possibility of seizing parts of the Strait of Hormuz to reopen commercial shipping lanes, although that step could involve ground forces. In an interview with Axios on Wednesday, Trump stated that a naval blockade against Iran is “somewhat more effective than bombing” and is considered a primary pressure tool. However, the report mentions that Trump remains open to military action if Iran does not show a compromising attitude. US military planners are also anticipating the possibility of retaliatory action from Iran against US forces in the Middle East in response to the blockade. US Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine is reported to attend the presentation as well.