Trump weighing ‘short and powerful’ Iran strikes: Report

CENTOM has reportedly prepared a strike plan aimed at forcing Iran back to negotiations.

By World Israel News Staff

Military officials are scheduled to brief President Donald Trump on Thursday on a plan for “short and powerful” strikes targeting Iran, an effort aimed at shaking the Islamic Republic, breaking the current stalemate, and forcing Tehran back to the negotiating table.

According to a report from Axios, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) chief Adm. Brad Cooper will present the proposal during the meeting. The plan is expected to include attacks on critical Iranian infrastructure. Also in attendance will be Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine.

On Wednesday, Trump told Axios that he views the ongoing U.S. naval blockade of Iran’s ports and strategic maritime assets — including the Strait of Hormuz — as “somewhat more effective than the bombing.”

The president is reportedly growing frustrated with continued Iranian attacks on ships transiting the Strait, as well as Tehran’s refusal to engage in substantive discussions about its nuclear program, a central concern for Washington.

As a result, Trump is once again weighing the possibility of military action, sources familiar with the matter told Axios.

“He currently sees the blockade as his primary source of leverage, but he would consider military action if Iran still won’t cave,” the sources said.

The White House declined to confirm or deny the report when asked for comment.

Washington and Tehran agreed to a ceasefire in early April, temporarily halting strikes in what was initially framed as a two-week truce set to expire on April 21.

During that period, the two sides were expected to hold talks aimed at securing a longer-term agreement, potentially including a permanent freeze on Iran’s nuclear development program.

However, the ceasefire expired without a deal after negotiations between the two sides collapsed during talks held in Pakistan.

CENTCOMIsrael-Iran ceasefireOperation Epic FuryStrait of HormuzUS-Iran War