The United States is contemplating a potential renaming of its conflict with Iran if the current fragile ceasefire collapses. This renaming could serve as a strategy for President Donald Trump to argue that the 60-day clock requiring congressional authorization for war does not need to be reset. In accordance with the 1973 War Powers Resolution, the President must inform Congress within 48 hours of initiating combat. Failure to do so mandates the withdrawal of US troops within 60 days unless Congress approves further military action. The offensive dubbed Operation Epic Fury against Iran was halted after 40 days, leading the Trump administration to claim that the conflict has not surpassed the 60-day threshold for Congressional approval.
Reports from several US officials indicate that discussions are underway to potentially rename the operation from Operation Epic Fury to “Operation Sledgehammer,” signaling a serious contemplation of resuming military actions. While the Trump administration declared the end of the US-Iran war and Operation Epic Fury with the ceasefire in early April, the Pentagon has continued referring to the conflict as Operation Epic Fury and updating the public on ongoing efforts in the Middle East. A White House official mentioned that any new offensive against Iran would be initiated under a fresh name and operation, triggering a reset with Congress.
The possible name change follows recent statements by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who previously announced the conclusion of Operation Epic Fury. Despite recent exchanges of fire between the US and Iran, with Iran obstructing ship passage in the Strait of Hormuz and Trump imposing a blockade, the President has refrained from ordering a resumption of major combat operations. Trump remains skeptical about diplomatic negotiations with Iran and is exploring options to break the impasse while rejecting Iran’s latest proposal to end the war through a mediator.
Trump expressed dissatisfaction with Iran’s peace offering, emphasizing the non-negotiable stance on Iran possessing nuclear weapons, which he believes undermines the ceasefire proposal. Describing the ceasefire as precarious, Trump likened it to being on life support with slim chances of survival. The Pentagon redirected inquiries to the White House, which did not respond to requests for comments. Both entities have not provided any responses to queries.
