Trump Weighs Limited Strikes on Iran to Protect Strait of Hormuz: Axios

WASHINGTON, Aug 31: US President Donald Trump and senior aides are weighing limited strikes against Iranian military capabilities around the Strait of Hormuz in an effort to prevent Tehran from rebuilding radar, air-defense and anti-ship missile systems used to threaten shipping, Axios reported, citing three US officials.

According to the report, the plan was developed over the past week by US Central Command and supported by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. However, Trump had not approved the proposal before the latest exchange of fire with Iran, and the administration had previously been reluctant to authorize strikes because of concerns that they could trigger further escalation.

One US official told Axios that the objective would be to reduce the risk of Iranian attacks on oil tankers, US Navy vessels and Air Force aircraft. The official described the proposed approach as an effort to periodically degrade Iranian capabilities rather than launch a broader military campaign.

Axios reported that CENTCOM has become increasingly concerned that Iran is rebuilding military capabilities around the strategic waterway. In one recent incident, an Iranian anti-aircraft missile was reportedly fired toward a US F-35 providing cover for ships in the strait. The missile did not come close enough to pose a threat, but US officials viewed the incident as evidence that Iran was attempting to restore its defenses and anti-ship capabilities.

CENTCOM reportedly told Hegseth, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Dan Caine and the White House that periodic strikes could be necessary to help dozens of oil tankers pass through the Strait of Hormuz with reduced risk each day. Hegseth sent the proposal to the White House several days ago, but officials said the administration was still weighing the risks of military action against the potential need to protect shipping through the vital waterway.