Trump Steps Up Military Pressure on Iran, Experts Question Effectiveness of Approach

Donald Trump has ordered further airstrikes against Iran and indicated that operations could expand if Tehran does not change its position. However, analysts believe that the use of military force is unlikely to push Iran toward concessions, while the possibility of the conflict spreading across the region remains high.

Clashes between Washington and Tehran have entered an alarming phase after the temporary ceasefire reached a month ago failed to hold. Reciprocal attacks have continued for several days, also affecting global markets, where oil prices and economic uncertainty have risen.

Reuters sources say Trump is considering new military options. These include strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure, strategic facilities and even underground nuclear plants. However, experts believe such a move would not change the direction of Iranian policy.

“There is no reason to believe that new strikes will make the Iranians change their way of thinking. On the contrary, they could further strengthen their position,” said Jonathan Panikoff, a former US intelligence official for the Middle East.

A senior Trump administration official told Reuters that the president prefers diplomacy. However, he stressed that “the only language Iran understands is military power.”

Tehran has warned that a US strike on its energy sector could lead to the blockade of the Bab al-Mandeb Strait by Houthi rebels in Yemen, Iran’s allies. This route is one of the main corridors for international oil transport. Iran has also signalled that, in the event of further escalation, it could attack civilian targets belonging to US allies in the Persian Gulf.

Control over the Strait of Hormuz is also at the heart of the crisis, as around one-fifth of the world’s oil supply passes through this maritime route. Washington and its allies seek to ensure freedom of navigation, while Iran argues that it should have a role in managing this strategic area.

Most analysts believe Iranian leaders will not back down easily, despite US military and economic pressure. In their view, expanding US operations could provoke a stronger response from Tehran and increase the risk of a wider war in the Middle East.