The Trump administration has decided, for now, not to significantly expand the military campaign against Iran, according to a report published Sunday by The New York Times. The decision was made after senior officials warned that a broader offensive could create serious military and geopolitical risks.
The development comes as the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) confirmed that the maritime blockade around the Strait of Hormuz remains in effect, maintaining pressure on Iranian shipping and restricting Tehran’s ability to use the strategic waterway.
Trump Reviews Military Options
President Donald Trump held a high-level security meeting on Friday with senior advisers, Cabinet members and military officials to examine possible next steps in the confrontation with Iran.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, the meeting focused on the risks of launching a large-scale military operation and the possible consequences for U.S. forces and regional stability.
Although Trump has repeatedly threatened further strikes against Iran, officials said that no decision has been made to move toward a significantly broader campaign.
U.S. Air Defense Stockpiles Raise Concerns
One of the main issues presented to the president was the potential strain on American air-defense capabilities in the Middle East.
Military officials reportedly warned that expanding operations could lead to a dangerous reduction in the availability of Patriot interceptor missiles and other defensive systems used to protect U.S. forces and allies in the region.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine reportedly told officials that while the United States can intensify military operations, such a move could reduce its ability to respond to additional threats.
Washington Fears Regional Escalation
Beyond the military considerations, senior U.S. officials expressed concern that a major escalation could trigger a wider regional conflict.
Officials warned that an expanded war could:
- Increase attacks against U.S. allies in the Gulf;
- Threaten global energy markets;
- Create additional instability across the Middle East;
- Lead to new humanitarian crises.
The administration is therefore attempting to maintain pressure on Tehran while avoiding a conflict that could spiral beyond its control.
Trump Keeps Diplomatic Channel Open
Despite the continued military pressure, President Trump said that negotiations with Iran remain possible.
Trump told reporters that Tehran appears to be taking talks more seriously than before but added that Iran is not yet ready for a final agreement.
The president said the United States faces two possible paths: reaching a diplomatic deal or continuing military action.
U.S. Intelligence Raises Nuclear Concerns
The debate inside the administration is also being influenced by new intelligence assessments regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions.
According to reports, U.S. intelligence agencies believe Iran’s new leadership may be more willing than the previous leadership to consider developing a nuclear weapons capability.
The assessment reportedly contrasts with the approach attributed to former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who publicly opposed nuclear weapons while allowing Iran to expand its nuclear capabilities.
Iran Preserves Nuclear Infrastructure
U.S. officials reportedly believe that Iran has not resumed an active nuclear weapons program at this stage.
However, intelligence assessments indicate that Tehran is working to preserve remaining nuclear assets and equipment damaged during previous strikes.
According to the reports, Iran has moved some centrifuges and sensitive equipment to protected underground facilities in an effort to safeguard its nuclear capabilities.
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the confrontation between Washington and Tehran.
The waterway is one of the world’s most important energy routes, with a significant share of global oil and gas shipments passing through it.
The continuation of the U.S. maritime blockade represents a major economic pressure tool against Iran while increasing concerns over the possibility of further escalation.
Next Phase Could Determine Course of Conflict
While the Trump administration has decided against an immediate major expansion of the war, officials emphasize that the situation remains highly volatile.
The coming days will depend on developments in negotiations, Iran’s military activity, intelligence assessments and the ability of both sides to avoid a broader confrontation.
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