US weighs fresh Iran strikes, military options under consideration
The United States is reportedly considering a new round of strikes on Iran's energy infrastructure as tensions in the Gulf continue to escalate. According to CBS News and *The Wall Street Journal*, US officials are weighing attacks on energy facilities, including power plants and refineries, with discussions reportedly focusing on concluding any operation before financial markets reopen on Monday.
President Donald Trump has not yet issued final authorization, while the reports said Israel has been briefed and is coordinating with Washington. However, an Israeli official told CBS News that no decision on renewed military operations had been communicated.
Speaking during a Cabinet meeting at Camp David, Trump said the United States would "be hitting them very hard," while White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Iran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon. Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell said US forces were "locked and loaded" but declined to discuss potential targets. The *Wall Street Journal* reported Trump could still suspend any planned strikes if there is immediate progress in diplomatic negotiations.
Iran warns of retaliation
Iran warned it is prepared to respond to any new military action. A senior Iranian security official, quoted by Tasnim News Agency, said Tehran had developed a comprehensive retaliation plan targeting critical infrastructure in Israel and US energy assets in the region.
Tanker hit off Oman
Separately, the UK Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) said a tanker was struck by an unidentified projectile about 11 nautical miles northeast of Lima, Oman, early Saturday. The impact damaged the vessel's engine room, leaving it not under command. No casualties or environmental damage were reported, and authorities are investigating the incident. The vessel's flag has not been identified.
The incident comes amid heightened security concerns around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes.
Diplomatic efforts continue
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is working with Oman to establish operational mechanisms for managing navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. During a telephone conversation with UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband, Araghchi warned that third-party interference would further complicate the situation, while Miliband said Britain is not a party to the conflict with Iran and continues to support diplomacy as the best path to reducing regional tensions.
Source:AA
