US President Donald Trump has signalled the possibility of expanding military operations against Iran, raising concerns that the conflict could spread further across the Middle East despite growing international calls for diplomacy.
Read More: Iran warns of wider regional war over US strikes
According to reports, Washington is considering widening the scope of its air campaign following the collapse of a temporary ceasefire agreement reached about a month ago. The United States is seeking to reduce Iran’s influence over the Strait of Hormuz and increase pressure on Tehran to meet its strategic demands.
Reports indicate that US officials are reviewing military options that could include strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, bridges, the Kharg Island oil terminal, and underground nuclear-related facilities. However, defence and foreign policy experts warn that escalating attacks may strengthen Iran’s resolve rather than force it to change course.
Jonathan Panikoff, a Middle East expert at the Atlantic Council, said additional US military action is more likely to harden Tehran’s position than encourage concessions, highlighting the risks of further escalation.
A senior Trump administration official maintained that diplomacy remains the president’s preferred option but argued that Iran responds only to sustained military pressure. The official said Washington would continue its campaign while leaving the door open for negotiations.
Meanwhile, Iran has warned that any expansion of US attacks could trigger retaliation against civilian infrastructure in countries allied with Washington. Analysts also caution that Tehran could seek support from regional allies, including Yemen’s Houthi movement, potentially threatening shipping through the Bab al-Mandab waterway and increasing risks to global energy supplies.
The renewed confrontation has already heightened concerns in international markets, with investors closely monitoring developments for potential disruptions to oil exports and maritime trade routes. Analysts say prolonged instability could place additional pressure on global energy prices and regional security.
Read More: Trump Threatens to Destroy Iran’s Power Plants and Bridges
Diplomatic observers continue to stress that dialogue remains the most viable path to preventing a wider regional conflict, warning that continued military escalation could have serious humanitarian, economic, and geopolitical consequences.