FORT MYERS: US President Donald Trump said on Friday that the United States could carry out another military operation against Iran, raising fresh concerns about a possible escalation of the ongoing conflict.
“We may do another little Epic Fury,” Trump said during a rally in Florida while discussing the war. He did not provide further details about the possibility, timing or potential targets of another operation.
Operation Epic Fury is the name used by the US military for its campaign against Iran.
Trump’s remarks came as the conflict approached its eighth month, with rising fuel prices adding to economic concerns in the United States ahead of the midterm elections.
Trump Weighs Options for Ending the War
Earlier on Friday, Trump said the United States could bring the war to an end quickly but questioned whether Washington should pursue an immediate conclusion or allow the conflict to wind down gradually.
His comments reflected uncertainty over the next phase of the US military campaign, despite previous suggestions that the conflict could end soon.
A renewed operation could further complicate efforts to reduce regional tensions and increase uncertainty over the prospects for a diplomatic settlement.
The conflict has already had severe humanitarian consequences. US-Israeli strikes on Iran and Israeli attacks on Lebanon have killed thousands of people and displaced millions, according to the supplied report.
Iran Reports Tankers Striking Naval Mines
Separately, Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps said two tankers struck naval mines while attempting to use what it described as an unauthorised route south of the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian state media reported the statement, which came amid continued tensions over maritime traffic in the strategically important waterway.
Trump Says Iran Deal Is Not His Preferred Option as War Enters Eighth Month
The Strait of Hormuz is a critical route for international energy shipments, making disruptions to shipping a major concern for global oil markets and supply chains.
The reported incidents have added to concerns about the safety of commercial vessels operating in the area.
Regional Security Concerns Persist
Trump’s latest warning and Iran’s claims about the tanker incidents underscore the risk of further escalation as the conflict continues.
Any additional military action could intensify instability across the Middle East, while disruptions to maritime traffic could place further pressure on energy prices.
For now, Trump has not announced a formal decision to launch another operation, and the details of any potential military action remain unclear.
