May 16, 2026 02:51 pm (IST)
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Operation Epic Fury 2.0? Trump weighs fresh Iran strikes after high-stakes China talks
The United States is preparing a range of military options against Iran as diplomatic efforts remain stalled, with reports indicating that President Donald Trump is considering a renewed offensive following his two-day visit to China.
According to a report by The New York Times, Pentagon planners have developed contingency plans for a possible new phase of military action, informally referred to as “Operation Epic Fury 2.0”.
Trump concluded high-level discussions in Beijing with Chinese President Xi Jinping, during which the Iran conflict and the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz featured prominently.
The US President later said that both Washington and Beijing agreed that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons and that shipping through the Strait of Hormuz should resume.
Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump dismissed Tehran’s latest peace proposal, saying it did not meet key US demands.
Pentagon prepares for possible escalation
The report said the Pentagon is ready to launch a more extensive military campaign if Trump decides to resume strikes.
US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth told lawmakers this week that the administration had plans to escalate if necessary.
Two Middle East officials quoted by The New York Times said the United States and Israel were conducting intensive preparations for possible strikes that could begin as early as next week.
Before departing for China, Trump said Iran would either reach a deal or face severe consequences.
Military options under consideration
US officials are reportedly considering several options.
One proposal involves intensified strikes against Iranian military and infrastructure targets.
Another option would be to deploy US Special Operations forces to secure nuclear material stored in fortified underground facilities.
A third possibility would involve seizing Kharg Island, Iran’s main oil export terminal, though this would require a significantly larger military presence.
Iran signals readiness for renewed conflict
Iranian officials have said the country is prepared for any escalation.
Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran’s armed forces were ready to respond decisively to any new attack.
He added that Tehran was prepared for all scenarios.
According to intelligence assessments cited in the report, Iran has restored operational control over most of its missile infrastructure, including launch sites and underground facilities.
Officials said 30 of 33 missile sites along the Strait of Hormuz are believed to be operational.
Hormuz remains a strategic flashpoint
The Strait of Hormuz remains central to the conflict.
The narrow waterway handles a substantial share of global oil shipments and is one of the world’s most strategically important maritime routes.
Any prolonged disruption could have significant implications for global energy markets and international trade.
Trump faces political pressure at home
Trump’s decision comes amid growing domestic pressure ahead of the November midterm elections.
The conflict has become increasingly contentious in the United States, with concerns over both the financial cost of military action and its political impact.
At the same time, US allies continue to press for a negotiated settlement that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz and reduce regional tensions.
#Operation Epic Fury 2.0
# Trump Iran strikes
# Trump China Visit
# US Iran conflict
# Strait Of Hormuz
# Pentagon plans
# Xi Jinping
# Pete Hegseth
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