The Trump administration has been considering launching a renewed military campaign against Iran under a different operational name, including “Operation Sledgehammer”, if the fragile ceasefire collapses.
NBC News reported that US officials have been discussing replacing the previous campaign title, “Operation Epic Fury”, should President Donald Trump decide to restart large-scale combat operations.
The discussions reflected growing expectations inside the administration that war with Iran could resume amid stalled diplomatic efforts and continuing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz.
According to the report, some officials believe a new operational name could strengthen the argument that a renewed campaign constitutes a separate military action under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, which limits how long a president can conduct operations without congressional approval.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently told reporters that “Operation Epic Fury” had concluded after Washington and Tehran agreed to halt hostilities last month.
However, US military capabilities in the region have expanded since the conflict first began in February.
The Pentagon has not immediately responded to requests for comment.
