Trump Aims to Conclude Iran Conflict Without Reopening Strait of Hormuz: WSJ

President Donald Trump has informed his advisors that he is prepared to end U.S. military operations against Iran even if the Strait of Hormuz remains closed, according to a report by the Wall Street Journal citing administration officials.

The proposed strategy suggests that Tehran’s control over the vital waterway could persist in the near term, leaving the complex task of reopening the shipping lane for a later date.

Shifting Military Priorities
The report indicates that President Trump and his aides have spent recent days reviewing the tactical situation. They have reportedly concluded that a forced operation to reopen the Strait could extend the conflict well beyond the President's preferred timeline of four to six weeks.

According to officials, the administration's refined objectives now focus on:

• Neutralizing Assets: Destroying the Iranian Navy and missile stockpiles.
• De-escalation: Reducing active combat once key military targets are hit.
• Diplomatic Pressure: Transitioning to diplomatic channels to force Tehran into restoring free trade.

Relying on Allies
Should this plan fail to secure the waterway, Washington reportedly intends to pivot the responsibility toward international partners.

Officials stated that the U.S. would pressure allies in Europe and the Gulf region to take the lead in any future efforts to reopen the Strait.

While military options for a forced reopening remain on the table, officials emphasized that the President is not currently prioritizing them, opting instead for a swifter conclusion to the active war.
Source: The Guardian / Wall Street Journal