Strikes on Iran strengthen Trump's options for new escalation, officials say

Strikes on Iran aimed at opening the Strait of Hormuz are also being used to strengthen President Donald Trump’s military options, officials said. In reporting from Washington, three U.S. officials described recent U.S. strikes as targeting Iranian military capabilities the U.S. would want to neutralize before more complex operations. They said the attacks function as “shaping operations,” degrading air defenses and related assets so follow-on actions would be easier if ordered. The officials noted that, despite heavy hits to Iran’s military since the February 28 start of the U.S. and Israeli campaign, Tehran retains significant drone and missile capability and has continued attacks on tankers and Gulf neighbors. The U.S. military said the latest bombings targeted air defense systems, coastal radar, missile and drone sites, and maritime assets. The Pentagon did not comment. Planning discussed earlier included potential troop deployment and possible action near Kharg Island, a key oil-export hub.