Share 'creative' ways to bring Iran to negotiating table: US military asks troops

The US Central Command (Centcom) has solicited innovative and unconventional strategies from military analysts to compel Iran into dialogue, as the country weighs alternative measures to engage Tehran, according to CNN. The plea emerged as the US military reevaluates its approach and explores options beyond conventional strikes. An email addressed to a wide range of military analysts requested novel methods to pressure Iran, with a focus on devising new ways to exert influence on the nation, CNN reported.

Centcom spokesperson defended the initiative, asserting that the command has a "long history of thinking and working in innovative ways," and highlighted that Adm. Cooper, the Centcom commander, frequently solicits input from personnel across ranks to enhance operational effectiveness. This request comes as US President Donald Trump deliberates whether to resume or escalate US strikes against Iran.

Trump had threatened additional attacks but ultimately refrained from doing so over the weekend following regional leaders' appeals for de-escalation.

For weeks, the US has carried out airstrikes aimed at weakening Iran's capacity to endanger shipping through the Strait of Hormuz and prompt Tehran into negotiations. However, these efforts have not yielded the desired agreement from Washington. Intelligence agencies have expressed skepticism about whether persistent bombing can alter the US's objectives. The CIA and Defense Intelligence Agency have concluded that the ongoing air campaign is unlikely to meaningfully impact Iran's negotiating stance.

Despite these assessments, President Trump is contemplating a more extensive military campaign, including potential strikes against nuclear facilities. However, some of these sites are situated deep underground, necessitating ground forces—something Trump has been reluctant to commit to due to the associated risks. One potential plan under review involves an intensive bombing campaign lasting one to two weeks, focused on dismantling Iran's missile capabilities, according to US officials.

Trump has thus far refrained from such escalation, partly due to concerns over dwindling stocks of US air-defense interceptors raised by Caines.

Other options being contemplated entail deploying US ground troops and occupying strategic territory, such as Kharg Island or securing Iran's highly enriched uranium. However, such actions risk violating Trump's previous pledge to avoid prolonged foreign wars. Additionally, expanding the campaign to critical infrastructure, including bridges and desalination facilities, could trigger substantial civilian casualties.

Another approach involves open-ended conflicts, which could leave the administration facing the prospect of another protracted battle.