President Trump is set to receive a briefing on Thursday from CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper regarding potential military actions against Iran, according to sources familiar with the matter. The briefing will outline several options, including a 'short and powerful' wave of strikes targeting key infrastructure aimed at breaking the deadlock in nuclear negotiations.
Military Options on the Table
One proposed plan involves a naval blockade to reopen the Strait of Hormuz to commercial shipping, potentially requiring ground forces. Another option under consideration is a special forces operation to secure Iran's stockpile of highly enriched uranium. While Trump has reportedly expressed preference for the blockade as a primary leverage tool, military action remains on the table if Iran refuses to concede.
This comes as U.S. military planners anticipate possible retaliatory actions by Iran against U.S. forces in the region. Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine is also expected to attend the briefing.
'Trump sees the blockade as somewhat more effective than bombing,' a source stated, emphasizing the administration's strategy to pressure Iran back to negotiations.
The briefing follows a similar session in February that preceded the U.S.-Israel joint military operation against Iran. The administration continues to weigh military options as it seeks to assert American interests in the region.