US Military Says Ready for Combat Operations Against Iran as Gulf Tensions Escalate

The United States military has said its forces are prepared to resume combat operations against Iran if ordered, as tensions escalate sharply in the Gulf region following renewed attacks on commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz.

A senior U.S. military official stated that the U.S. Central Command and joint forces remain on standby for major operations, warning that “no adversary should mistake restraint for lack of resolve.”

The statement comes amid heightened confrontation between the two sides, including reported missile and drone exchanges and attacks involving commercial maritime routes. U.S. officials also warned of a “devastating” response if Iranian forces continue targeting shipping in the strategic waterway.

Defense officials said Iran had launched missiles and drones toward U.S. forces and regional infrastructure, while Washington carried out strikes against vessels it claimed were threatening commercial shipping. The situation marks one of the most serious escalations since a recent ceasefire period.

Pentagon leadership emphasized that the United States is not seeking war, but said any attacks on international shipping lanes would be met with overwhelming force.

Iranian officials, meanwhile, accused the United States of escalating tensions in the region and interfering with maritime passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy route. Tehran has also denied claims that its combat vessels were damaged in recent U.S. strikes.

The conflict has already raised concerns across global markets, with energy prices fluctuating and international shipping companies adjusting routes. European and Middle Eastern leaders have urged restraint and a return to diplomatic negotiations, warning that prolonged instability could have severe global economic consequences.

Diplomatic talks between Washington and Tehran remain stalled, with only limited direct engagement reported so far.