US Army Seeks Ideas: 'Looking for Ways to Punish Iran'
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) sent an unusual email to military analysts requesting new and creative ways to pressure Iran, after repeated strikes failed to advance a deal. Options under consideration include another wave of strikes, attacking deep nuclear facilities, or a risky ground operation. Trump has so far avoided broad escalation due to military and political risks.
The US Central Command (CENTCOM) sent an unusual email to a broad group of military analysts asking for new, creative, and unconventional ways to pressure and punish Iran. The request, described as an unusual crowdsourcing format, illustrates the complex situation of the Trump administration: options are limited, and some carry heavy costs. For weeks, the United States has been bombing targets in Iran in an attempt to undermine its ability to threaten shipping in the Strait of Hormuz and bring Tehran back to the negotiating table, but with no visible progress. Trump is considering expanding the campaign, including strikes on remaining nuclear facilities, but these are deep underground and may require a ground operation, which Trump has avoided due to the risk to soldiers. According to the report, 18 American soldiers have been killed so far. One option is a wave of strikes that would look like a "fireworks show" to give Trump a symbolic achievement. The CIA and DIA have also assessed that the bombings will not change Iran's position. Trump has promised not to send troops to foreign wars, and the alternative is continued rounds of relentless strikes.