U.S. Military Intensifies Contingency Planning for Iran Bombing Campaign amid Maritime Tensions

As the U.S.-Iran conflict approaches its eighth week, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is briefing the nation on "Operation Epic Fury." U.S. military officials have begun developing plans for a concentrated bombing campaign targeting Iran's strategic capabilities surrounding key waterways. This represents a tactical shift from previous operations focused primarily on the Iranian navy, intended for implementation should the current indefinite ceasefire collapse. On the water, U.S. naval forces remain engaged in clearing Iranian mines from critical shipping lanes in the Strait of Hormuz, a transit point for 20% of the world's traded oil. Recent actions include the redirection of 33 vessels and the boarding of two Iran-linked oil tankers, one of which occurred in the Indian Ocean overnight Wednesday. These measures follow previous Iranian attacks on three ships and the seizure of two vessels. Secretary Hegseth noted that Iran has repositioned military assets during the ceasefire pause, prompting the U.S. to accelerate escalatory preparations. Despite the heightened military activity and planning, there have been no new sanctions, nuclear developments, or diplomatic breakthroughs reported in the last 24 hours.