US-Iran War Live Updates: CENTCOM Plans “Short, Powerful” Strike as Oil Surges Above $123
Tensions between the United States and Iran have escalated sharply, with fresh reports indicating that Washington is preparing a swift and decisive military strategy. According to multiple sources, the United States Central Command (CENTCOM) has drafted a “short and powerful” strike plan aimed at forcing Tehran to make concessions in the ongoing, yet stalled, negotiations.
CENTCOM Chief to Brief Trump on Iran Strike Plan
Meanwhile, CENTCOM Chief Brad Cooper is expected to brief US President Donald Trump on Thursday (April 30), as per reports. The proposed strategy reportedly includes a series of targeted strikes designed to increase pressure on Iran’s leadership.
Importantly, officials believe that a rapid and high-impact operation could shift the balance in negotiations. However, the move also raises fears of a broader regional escalation.
Oil Prices Surge as War Fears Intensify
At the same time, global markets have reacted sharply to the rising tensions. Brent crude prices surged more than 5%, crossing the $123 mark after Trump warned that a US blockade of Iranian ports could last for months.
Specifically, Brent crude jumped 5.6% to $124.67 in Asian trading, while West Texas Intermediate (WTI) climbed 2.4% to $109.49. As a result, concerns over global energy supply disruptions have intensified, pushing markets into a volatile phase.
US Pushes for Coalition to Secure Strait of Hormuz
In addition, the United States is actively seeking support from its allies to secure the critical Strait of Hormuz shipping route. This narrow passage remains vital for global oil transportation.
According to reports, Washington has urged international partners to join a coalition aimed at ensuring safe navigation in the region. Furthermore, US officials emphasized that collective action is necessary to counter any disruption and maintain economic stability.
Pentagon Chief Attacks Critics Amid Rising Political Tensions
Domestically, the situation has sparked intense political debate. US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth strongly criticized opposition lawmakers, calling them the “biggest adversary” for questioning the Iran war strategy.
Notably, this marks his first congressional testimony since the US and Israel launched military operations against Iran on February 28. At the same time, the White House is pushing for a massive $1.5 trillion defence budget, reflecting the scale of ongoing military commitments.
US Defends Military Action Against Iran
Defending the operation, Hegseth stated that Iran’s nuclear infrastructure has been “obliterated” and is now under constant surveillance. Moreover, he emphasized that US forces are closely monitoring any potential movement of nuclear material.
Nevertheless, the situation remains highly volatile. As tensions continue to rise, global leaders are closely watching whether diplomacy can prevail—or if the region is heading toward a larger conflict.
