Iran Tensions Rise as Trump Considers Major New Military Attack
President Donald Trump stated he is considering a major new military attack on Iran larger than previous strikes, warning that Tehran has not yet suffered enough pain, as the US continues its 12th day of bombing Iranian military targets amid escalating Iran tensions over the Strait of Hormuz. [2]
Trump Signals Possible Major Escalation
President Donald Trump asserted he was evaluating a massive new attack on Iran, larger than any prior strike, and said he was close to a decision while noting the country had not suffered enough pain yet. [2] He indicated that Israel would join such an operation in two minutes if asked, though he added that the United States did not need assistance from anyone. [2] The statements came as the United States marked twelve consecutive days of strikes on Iranian military targets following the breakdown of talks aimed at securing free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. [1] Trump avoided setting a specific timeline for any decision on widening the offensive. [1]
Ongoing US Strikes and Iranian Retaliation
US Central Command reported that operations targeted military objectives during the twelfth consecutive night of strikes intended to degrade Iran’s ability to threaten civilian mariners and commercial vessels. [3] Iranian state media reported that US attacks hit Bushehr, home to the country’s only civilian nuclear plant, as well as Qeshm Island in the Strait of Hormuz and the border area of Shalamcheh. [3] Iranian forces stopped three oil tankers attempting to transit the southern Strait of Hormuz. [2] Tehran warned that not a drop of oil would pass through Hormuz if the United States struck its infrastructure. [2] Iran’s army spokesperson stated that retaliatory attacks would continue as long as US strikes on infrastructure and coastal areas persisted. [3]
Houthi Attacks Expand Regional Conflict
Houthi rebels claimed missile and drone strikes on two Saudi tankers, the Encelia and the Layla, in the Red Sea after declaring a blockade of Saudi ports. [3] President Trump warned that any repeat of such actions would lead the United States to hold Iran responsible as the Houthis’ proxy, resulting in heavy military sanctions against Tehran. [2] Brent crude oil prices surged past $100 a barrel for the first time since May, rising 7 percent. [3] United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres stated that the situation is getting out of control and teetering on the edge of the unimaginable. [3] European Central Bank President Christine Lagarde warned that the energy shock could intensify further and push up inflation. [3] German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said nothing suggests a ceasefire or peace could be reached. [3]
Congressional Debate Over War Powers
The US House of Representatives passed a resolution 214-208 that criticizes the continuation of military operations against Iran, with four Republicans joining Democrats in support. [2] The Senate blocked a similar measure by a 47-49 vote. [2] Republican Senator Susan Collins voted with Democrats on the Senate measure, while Senator John Fetterman supported the position favoring continued action. [2] Senators Rand Paul and Lisa Murkowski did not participate in the vote. [2] Senator Bill Cassidy, who had earlier criticized the lack of transparency in the conflict, said he changed his position after receiving new information from the Trump administration. [2]
Domestic Opposition to the Conflict
A Washington Post/Ipsos poll found that 68 percent of Americans believe the conflict with Iran is not worth it. [1] A Fox News poll showed 56 percent of voters oppose US military action against Iran, while 66 percent disapprove of President Trump’s handling of the issue. [5] The same Fox News survey indicated that 64 percent of voters expect the war to last at least a year. [5] Among those who oppose the conflict, 80 percent anticipate it will continue for a year or more. [5] Just 34 percent of voters approve of Trump’s handling of Iran. [5]
Trump Proposal on Iranian Funds for Shipping Damage
President Trump said Iranian funds under US control should be used to pay for damage to ships and cargo amid ongoing threats to commercial shipping. [4]
What to watch next
Further Houthi actions in the Red Sea could trigger additional US measures holding Iran responsible, while Iranian threats to close the Strait of Hormuz remain in place if strikes on its infrastructure continue.
