US Prepares for Extended Showdown With Iran Over Strait of Hormuz

WASHINGTON, July 9: The White House is preparing for the possibility of a prolonged military exchange with Iran over the Strait of Hormuz, with the confrontation potentially lasting days or even weeks depending on Tehran's next moves, according to a report by Axios.

Citing US officials, the report said the duration and intensity of the escalation would largely depend on whether Iran continues attacks on commercial vessels transiting the strategic waterway.

A US official told Axios that elements within Iran's leadership were dissatisfied with recent developments and "started shooting," prompting Washington to respond with a stronger military campaign.

The official added that while the United States remains open to reaching an agreement with Tehran, it would not accept any deal that fails to meet US demands.

According to the report, officials believe the current confrontation could last "a day or two" or extend to "a week or a month," depending on Iran's actions in the Strait of Hormuz.

Axios said what initially began as a US effort to degrade Iran's missile capabilities and nuclear program has now evolved into an open-ended confrontation over one of the world's most strategically important energy and shipping corridors.