Pentagon eyes 'Operation Sledgehammer' if Iran ceasefire breaks down - report

By JAMES GENN

MAY 14, 2026 02:31

The Pentagon is exploring a rename of its Iran campaign to "Operation Sledgehammer" should the current ceasefire end and President Donald Trump greenlight fresh strikes on the Islamic Republic, according to two U.S. officials cited by NBC News on Tuesday.

A White House insider involved in the talks confirmed to NBC that any restarted combat against Iran would carry a distinct operation name.

Officials noted that "Operation Sledgehammer" represents just one option among several for potential renewed fighting.

U.S. forces in the region have grown substantially since Operation Epic Fury kicked off in February, the sources told NBC, should Trump launch a new bombing push.

"Our position is stronger today than on February 27 - we boast greater firepower and readiness," one official remarked.

In the meantime, U.S. Central Command remains committed to upholding the blockade at the Strait of Hormuz.

Adopting a new name like Sledgehammer would enable the Trump administration to claim it as a separate endeavor from Operation Epic Fury, which started February 28, potentially sidestepping the need for congressional authorization beyond the 60-day mark under the War Powers Resolution, NBC explained.

Still, the administration maintains that the 60-day limit from the 1973 War Powers Resolution never triggered, given that active combat in Operation Epic Fury halted after 40 days with the ceasefire declaration, per NBC.

Pentagon spokespeople referred NBC's questions to the White House, which offered no immediate reply.

Rubio declares Operation Epic Fury over, shifts U.S. to defensive posture in Iran conflict

Just last Tuesday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced the conclusion of Operation Epic Fury, marking a pivot to defensive measures while sustaining the blockade on Iranian ports.

"Operation Epic Fury is done. We met all its goals," Rubio stated to journalists, declaring the offensive phase against Iran finished.

"We're holding fire unless provoked first. This is purely defensive," he added. "No attacks on our ships or forces means no response from us - but any aggression will be met decisively."

Reuters contributed to this report.