Military officials have informed President Donald Trump that any attempt to take control of the Strait of Hormuz would require a prolonged, expensive, and potentially deadly operation. Success in such an endeavor is not guaranteed, according to unidentified sources.

On Monday, vessels were observed transiting the Strait of Hormuz near Bandar Abbas in Iran’s south, highlighting the strategic importance of this narrow passage. The location’s significance is underscored by images provided by Atta Kenare from AFP via Getty Images.

A recent U.S. military intelligence report indicates a shift in Iran’s strategic focus from its nuclear ambitions to the Strait of Hormuz. This change has been noted by two officials with knowledge of the assessment.

The information aligns with broader concerns about the geopolitical tensions in the region, emphasizing the strategic leverage Iran holds over this critical maritime chokepoint.