WASHINGTON, May 9: The United States could move swiftly to cripple Iran’s military capabilities if nuclear and diplomatic talks collapse, beginning with missile systems, naval assets, and command-and-control networks before escalating to more sensitive targets, according to analysts cited by Fox News.
Negotiations are continuing over a preliminary framework deal on Iran’s nuclear program and potential sanctions relief. However, former Joint Staff planner Seth Krummrich said both sides are operating from a position of deep mistrust, noting that discussions effectively begin “at minus 1,000.”
The report comes amid heightened tensions in the Gulf region, where recent strikes and maritime incidents near the Strait of Hormuz have raised concerns about broader escalation. A senior US official recently said strikes on Iranian facilities in Qeshm and Bandar Abbas were not intended to restart full-scale war, but were conducted in response to Iranian missile and drone attacks on regional targets.
Former US Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula warned that any renewed conflict could become a “contest for escalation control,” with potential US targets including ballistic missile sites, air defense systems, maritime strike assets, IRGC infrastructure, proxy support networks, and nuclear-related facilities.
Analysts also suggested that Iran’s fast-attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz could be an early focus, given their role in disrupting shipping. Despite previous US strikes, Iran is believed to still retain hundreds of such vessels, alongside a substantial IRGC manpower base.
Retired Rear Adm. Mark Montgomery said Washington may continue applying economic pressure for several more weeks before considering broader military escalation, while maritime pressure in the region is already being used as a strategic lever in place of direct strikes on key Iranian oil infrastructure such as Kharg Island.
Iran reviewing US proposal amid mistrust
Separately, an adviser to Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Tehran is currently reviewing a US proposal, despite what he described as “provocations” and deep mistrust of Washington.
Ali Safari told Al Mayadeen that Iran is engaged in what he called a process of “rebuilding trust” with the United States, while stressing that Tehran has received messages indicating Washington does not want further escalation.
“We are reviewing their proposal,” Safari said, adding that Iran does not seek to use the Strait of Hormuz as leverage, but would respond to any further attacks.
He said Iran’s priority remains ending the conflict, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and preventing what he called US “piracy,” while also noting that discussions extend beyond the Gulf and include wider regional fronts.
Iran has not formally responded to the US proposal yet, but officials in Tehran say consultations are ongoing through indirect diplomatic channels.
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