The Pentagon is reportedly weighing the possibility of renaming the ongoing US military operation against Iran to "Operation Sledgehammer" should hostilities resume, according to defence sources. The current designation, "Operation Epic Fury," which began on 28 February, has encountered a stalemate as peace negotiations remain unresolved.
Renaming Would Reset Congressional Approval Clock
A new operational name would effectively restart the 60-day congressional approval period mandated by the War Powers Resolution of 1973. This legislative mechanism requires the president to seek authorisation from Congress within 60 days of initiating hostilities, a timeline that has lapsed during the current ceasefire.
Strait of Hormuz Dispute Intensifies
President Trump is reportedly assessing options to reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, which has been restricted by Iranian forces. The waterway, through which approximately one-fifth of the world's petroleum passes, remains a flashpoint in the conflict. Trump has expressed deep scepticism about diplomatic solutions, describing an Iranian peace proposal as "TOTALLY UNACCEPTABLE."
The indefinite ceasefire currently in place has been characterised by the president as being on "massive life support," raising the prospect of renewed military engagement. The Defense Department has confirmed that the Iran war has cost $29 billion to date, underscoring the financial burden of the prolonged operation.
Critics argue that renaming the operation would be a procedural manoeuvre to bypass congressional oversight, while supporters contend it provides necessary flexibility for military commanders. As the situation evolves, the Pentagon's deliberations highlight the uncertain trajectory of US-Iran relations.
