The US Central Command (CENTCOM) has expressed growing concern over Iran's efforts to restore its military capabilities aimed at targeting vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. According to three senior US officials who spoke to Axios, CENTCOM is alarmed by Tehran's attempts to bolster its radar, air defense, and anti-ship missile systems in the region.
The officials stated that CENTCOM has briefed US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Dan Caine, and the White House on the potential necessity of conducting periodic, limited military strikes against Iran to ensure the safe passage of oil tankers. Sources indicate that Secretary Hegseth supports the CENTCOM plan, which is designed to prevent Tehran from reconstituting its military potential. The proposal is currently under review by US President Donald Trump.
While US President Donald Trump had not approved the plan prior to the mutual attacks that occurred over the weekend, reports suggest he is reconsidering the strategy involving limited strikes in light of the recent escalation. The Strait of Hormuz remains a critical global maritime chokepoint, through which a significant portion of the world's oil supply passes, making regional stability a primary concern for international security.
Tensions in the region have intensified significantly. On the night of August 30, the US military conducted two strikes on Larak Island near the Strait of Hormuz. Official reports indicate that the attacks resulted in at least two deaths, including civilians, and left two others injured. In retaliation, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) announced that it had launched ballistic missile attacks on the Muwaffaq Salti and King Hussein air bases in Jordan, which are utilized by US forces.
