What new military steps is the US planning against Iran?
US President Donald Trump and his administration are actively exploring scenarios for the resumption of limited military strikes against Iran and the blockade of the strategically significant Strait of Hormuz.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing sources from The Wall Street Journal, that these measures have come to the forefront following the collapse of negotiations held in Pakistan on April 12.
According to the reports, US President Donald Trump does not rule out a return to a large-scale bombing campaign. However, this is currently considered the least likely option due to the risk of increasing regional instability and a desire to avoid being drawn into a long-term military conflict. As an alternative, a temporary blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is being considered as a means of pressure to ensure more active participation of allies in the military escort of vessels.
US and Israeli military operations: Recent regional developments
It should be recalled that the United States and Israel launched joint military operations against Iran on February 28. These operations resulted in the deaths of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and several high-ranking officials. In response, Iran began striking targets in Israel, as well as military bases of the US and its allies located in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, Bahrain, Iraq, and Cyprus.
Ceasefire in the Strait of Hormuz and Islamabad negotiations
Amidst the escalating tension, Iran, the US, and their allies agreed to a two-week ceasefire on the night of April 8, 2026. Official Tehran stated that during this period, safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured in coordination with the Iranian Armed Forces, subject to technical restrictions.
Following these events, new negotiations between Iran and the US were mediated by Pakistan in Islamabad on April 11-12. The failure of these talks has now led the White House to reconsider its military posture in the region.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most vital oil transit chokepoints, with approximately one-fifth of the world's total oil consumption passing through the waterway daily. Any disruption or blockade in this region traditionally leads to significant volatility in global energy markets and heightened geopolitical risks across the Middle East.
