- By Vaidika Thapa
- Sat, 16 May 2026 06:57 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Reports suggest the US is considering fresh military options.
- Trump reaffirmed that Iran must not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
- Discussions are ongoing about a possible new phase of US-Iran tensions.
US President Donald Trump on Friday indicated that he is still considering future military options against Iran if required. He reiterated his stance of preventing Tehran from developing nuclear weapons. Trump’s remark comes amid reports that the Pentagon is considering renaming the operation from “Operation Epic Fury” to “Operation Sledgehammer.”
Trump Warns Iran Can’t Have Nukes
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One while traveling to Anchorage, Alaska, Trump defended recent US military actions. He claimed that the US had achieved a “total military victory,” saying Iran’s naval and air assets and missile production facilities had been severely damaged. “I can say this with very, very strong conviction, Iran will never have a nuclear weapon, not going to happen,” Trump said.
Fresh Strikes On Iran?
Meanwhile, reports suggest internal discussions within the Pentagon about renaming the operation from “Operation Epic Fury” to “Operation Sledgehammer.” According to NBC News, citing US officials, this move is being considered to reset the War Powers Act 60-day clock, which limits the duration of military action without Congressional approval.
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Why Is US Considering New Name?
Under the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the President must withdraw forces or seek authorisation within 60 days of initiating combat. Reports indicate that the original deadline for Operation Epic Fury had already expired on May 1, leading to debate in Congress over continued military engagement.
U. S.-Iran Military Engagement 🇺🇸🇮🇷
— U.S.A.I. 🇺🇸 (@researchUSAI) May 13, 2026
The U. S. military weighs renaming its conflict with Iran as Operation Sledgehammer should the existing ceasefire fail and President Trump resume large-scale combat operations, according to reports from NBC News correspondents
Heightened… https://t.co/VFjkrpGai7
According to officials, any new phase of operations could be treated as a restart of the 60-day period. One US official said, “We are in a better spot now than on February 27. We have more firepower and capability.” Another White House official added that a new title would allow the administration to legally reset the timeline for military action.
Earlier in April, following the ceasefire agreement with Iran, the Trump administration had announced the end of Operation Epic Fury. However, reports indicate that the Pentagon has continued to reference the operation in internal and public updates. This suggests that the conflict may not have been fully concluded.
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