US Reportedly Considers Renaming Potential Renewed Iran Offensive to 'Operation Sledgehammer'

Key news on the US-Iran war. WASHINGTON (CNA) — According to two U.S. officials, the U.S. military is considering formally renaming the war against Iran to 'Operation Sledgehammer' if the current ceasefire breaks and President Trump decides to resume large-scale military operations. NBC News reported that discussions on replacing 'Operation Epic Fury' with 'Operation Sledgehammer' highlight the seriousness with which the Donald Trump administration is considering a renewed war with Iran. This could also allow Trump to argue for a restart of the 60-day countdown for congressional war authorization required by U.S. law. The United States, in conjunction with Israel, launched a large-scale military operation against Iran on February 28, named 'Operation Epic Fury.' In early April, after the U.S. and Iran agreed to a ceasefire and began diplomatic negotiations, the Trump administration announced the end of 'Operation Epic Fury.' At that time, the U.S. government notified Congress that hostilities with Iran had ceased. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters last week, ''Operation Epic Fury' is over.' A White House official familiar with the discussions stated that any renewed war with Iran would be executed under a new name and operation, which, from the government's perspective, would reset the clock with Congress. This U.S. official revealed that 'Operation Sledgehammer' is not the only name being considered. Under the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the president must notify Congress within 48 hours of initiating hostilities; otherwise, troops must be withdrawn within 60 days unless Congress authorizes the military action. The offensive phase of 'Operation Epic Fury' was suspended after 40 days of combat. The Trump administration argues that, given this, the operation did not reach the 60-day threshold. Recently, the U.S. and Iran have exchanged fire, while Iran has blocked ships from passing through the Strait of Hormuz, and Trump has continued to implement a blockade. A U.S. official stated that Trump is still considering multiple options to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and break the stalemate, and is deeply skeptical about the success of US-Iran diplomatic negotiations. The official also noted that Trump has not yet ordered the U.S. military to resume large-scale combat operations. (Compiled by: Hsu Chung-che) 1150517