Donald Trump Officially Directs Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth to Prepare New Military Strike Plans on Iran Targets both in the country and in the Hormuz Strait as Diplomatic Talks Collapse

Trump Orders Pentagon to Prepare Potential Iran Strike Plans as Diplomacy Collapses

Washington — Trump has directed Defense Secretary pete Hegseth to begin preparing contingency military plans for possible strikes on Iranian targets, marking a sharp escalation after diplomatic efforts between the United States and Iran failed to hold.

According to senior officials familiar with the directive, the order includes developing options for strikes both داخل Iranian territory and in the strategically critical Strait of Hormuz , a narrow maritime corridor through which a significant portion of the world’s oil supply passes. Any disruption in the region could have immediate global economic consequences.

The move follows weeks of fragile negotiations aimed at easing tensions, which ultimately broke down amid disagreements over security guarantees, sanctions, and regional military activity. With talks now stalled, the administration appears to be shifting toward a posture of military readiness.

Officials say the Pentagon is not acting on an immediate order to strike, but rather preparing a range of options should the situation deteriorate further. These plans are expected to include precision targeting of military infrastructure, naval assets, and strategic facilities tied to Iran’s regional operations.

In a statement, sources close to the administration indicated that the directive is intended to “ensure readiness and protect U.S. interests,” particularly in light of recent incidents involving maritime security in the Gulf. Concerns have grown over potential threats to commercial shipping and U.S. naval presence in the area.

The Strait of Hormuz has long been a flashpoint in U.S.-Iran tensions, with both sides previously engaging in confrontations involving naval forces and commercial vessels. Analysts warn that any military action in or around the waterway risks rapid escalation, drawing in regional actors and disrupting global trade routes.

International reaction is likely to be swift. Allies in Europe have repeatedly urged restraint, emphasizing the need to revive diplomatic channels rather than pursue military solutions. Meanwhile, regional powers are closely monitoring developments, wary of a broader conflict that could destabilize the Middle East.

Defense analysts note that directing early-stage military planning is a common step during geopolitical crises, but it also sends a clear signal. “This is about leverage as much as preparedness,” one analyst said. “It tells Iran that the U.S. is willing to escalate if necessary.”

As tensions rise, attention now turns to whether backchannel diplomacy can be revived—or whether the situation will continue to move closer to open confrontation.