U.S. is preparing strikes against Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz

The developed options call for strikes with a particular focus on dynamic targeting of Iranian forces and assets around the Strait of Hormuz, the southern part of the Arabian Gulf, and the Gulf of Oman. Potential targets include small, high-speed attack boats, mine-laying vessels, and other asymmetric assets that Tehran has used to block key waterways, CNN reports.

These plans represent a shift in strategy compared to previous airstrikes, which focused on targets deep within Iranian territory. The new campaign calls for more concentrated strikes around strategic sea lanes.

Military planners are also considering strikes against dual-use facilities, infrastructure, and specific Iranian military leaders whom U.S. officials believe are derailing negotiations. Among them is Ahmad Vahidi, commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Military strikes directly in the Strait area are unlikely on their own to immediately restore shipping through this waterway.

“Unless you can unequivocally prove that 100% of Iran’s military capabilities have been destroyed, or unless you are nearly certain that the U.S. is capable of mitigating the risks on its own, it all comes down to how far Trump is willing to take the risk and begin allowing ships to pass through the strait,” one source said.

The U.S. Navy has 19 ships in the Middle East, including two aircraft carriers and seven ships in the Indian Ocean.

Photo: ukragroconsult.com.