Iran Military Operation and US-Iran Escalation

Hormuz remains closed and negotiations are stalled as the U.S. pivots toward economic pressure after a costly military deadlock. Iran is expanding or claiming expanded arms-production capacity for a prolonged defensive campaign, while reported U.S. Navy payroll and maintenance shortfalls, depleted defenses, cyberattacks, Hezbollah activity, disputed casualties and costs, and growing domestic opposition raise the risk of wider escalation.