Kathmandu— United States President Donald Trump signaled a new phase in the ongoing conflict with Iran after Iranian missiles struck US military sites in Jordan. This came shortly after the US launched strikes on Larak Island, marking the first direct attacks between the two sides in over a month. Trump vowed to respond forcefully, stating that the US would hit Iran hard without necessarily returning to full-scale war.

Escalation and Response

On Monday, the US targeted military sites on Larak Island near Iran’s strategic port of Bandar Abbas. Washington claimed its forces struck two Iranian rocket launchers that were preparing to scatter sea mines into the Strait of Hormuz. In retaliation, Iran launched missiles at Jordanian airbases hosting US personnel and assets. Jordan reported intercepting eight missiles. Trump pledged a strong response, saying: “We’re going to hit them hard.”

Ceasefire Framework Under Pressure

The conflict’s trajectory has been marked by shifting strategies and failed agreements. In June, the US and Iran signed an interim deal aimed at ending hostilities and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. However, disagreements over its vague wording led to its collapse within weeks. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for a ceasefire if the US fulfilled commitments under this expired agreement.

Economic Pressure Campaign

Amid reports that the US military was running low on munitions, particularly Patriot interceptor missiles, Trump’s administration shifted focus to economic pressure. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent announced sanctions targeting Iran's financial interests and oil revenue sources. He argued these measures were beginning to hurt Iran economically, a claim disputed by Iranian officials.

Sporadic Warfare Strategy

Observers suggest the US may be considering a “no war, no peace” strategy involving periodic military strikes on Iran to keep oil tankers safe in the Gulf region. This approach has been criticized as potentially leading to an indefinite conflict. Trita Parsi of the Quincy Institute noted that sporadic bombing amounts to a “forever war,” and Mohammad Eslami from the University of Tehran warned it could further escalate tensions.

The current situation remains unstable, with both sides prepared for military action but also wary of full-scale conflict. The US’s strategy faces challenges in sustainability due to potential munitions shortages and domestic political pressure.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

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Originally published on abcnews.com.np.