U.S. Weighs 'Operation Sledgehammer' for Possible Renewed Iran Strikes

Stalled talks, coupled with expanded U.S.-Israeli readiness, point to a short path from planning to action.

Overview

The administration is drafting contingency plans for new military action against Iran, with the name 'Operation Sledgehammer' under discussion if the fragile ceasefire collapses.
U.S. and Israeli forces have mounted their most extensive preparations since the pause, and officials say the posture could enable strikes as soon as next week.
Options under review include heavier bombing of Iranian military sites and potential Special Operations to target suspected nuclear material buried underground.
Negotiations have stalled after President Trump rejected Iran’s latest counterproposal as unacceptable, and Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned of retaliation for any attack.
A continuing U.S. naval blockade and restricted traffic in the Strait of Hormuz are disrupting shipping and keeping global energy prices elevated.