US-Iran stalemate: What are Trump’s next military options?
Summary
President Donald Trump has said he will not attack Iran before the U.S. midterm elections on November 3 but hinted the conflict might end afterward. Meanwhile, Iran has increased attacks on ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil shipments, while the U.S. military has sent more forces to the region.Key Facts
- The U.S. and Israel began attacking Iran on February 28, triggering Iranian counterattacks in the Gulf and nearby areas.
- Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz early in the conflict; this route carries about 20% of the world’s oil and natural gas.
- Oil prices rose from about $72 per barrel before the conflict to nearly $120 earlier this year; prices were around $104 recently.
- A ceasefire in June failed over control of the Strait of Hormuz, with the U.S. maintaining a naval blockade on Iranian ports.
- Iran has increased attacks on ships in the strait, using new tactics against vessels it sees as breaking its rules.
- The U.S. has at least three aircraft carrier strike groups in or heading to the Gulf and about 50,000 troops at bases in the Middle East.
- The U.S. is likely to continue its naval blockade and escorting commercial ships through the strait, balancing protection and avoiding open conflict.
- Drones are increasingly used by the U.S. for intelligence and attacks, which is less expensive than using aircraft.
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