After returning from China, Trump will face choice to resume strikes on Iran - media

The Pentagon has prepared several scenarios for resuming military strikes against Iran, and the final decision on how to proceed is to be made by US President Donald Trump upon his return from China.

It was reported by the American publication The New York Times.

According to the publication, Operation "Epic Fury," which was previously suspended following the announcement of a ceasefire, could be resumed as early as next week. Officials in Washington also do not rule out that the campaign will be given a new name.

"We have  a plan to escalate if necessary," said US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.

Among the options being considered in the US are large-scale airstrikes on Iran’s military and civilian infrastructure, as well as a special operation to seize nuclear materials at the Isfahan nuclear site.

According to the NYT, several hundred US special forces are already in the region and could be deployed for such an operation. However, thousands of military personnel would be needed to provide cover, and the risk of casualties is considered high.

Another possible scenario is the capture of Kharg Island, a key hub for Iranian oil exports.

The publication also notes that despite the ceasefire, Iran has regained access to most of its missile positions along the Strait of Hormuz and has partially restored damaged infrastructure.

Currently, there are about 7,000 U.S. troops in the region, along with two aircraft carrier strike groups, destroyers, and hundreds of aircraft, all ready to resume combat operations if ordered by Washington.

At the same time, the Trump administration is considering an alternative scenario—the gradual withdrawal of more than 50,000 US troops from the region.

According to the NYT, during negotiations between the US and China, the parties agreed on one key issue: Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons.