The military standoff in the Middle East could drag on for much longer than previously anticipated. According to Politico, citing an internal Pentagon document, the US Department of Defense expects the active phase of the operation against Iran to last at least 100 days. However, US strategic planning also allows for more pessimistic scenarios, under which hostilities could extend into September. This change in timeline indicates that the White House is preparing for a full-scale campaign to dismantle the Islamic Republic's military infrastructure, rather than a short-term punitive action. The prolonged nature of the operation poses new challenges to the global economy and logistics, given the risks of protracted destabilization in the Persian Gulf region.

Last night was the most difficult for Iran since the start of the current conflict, marked by an unprecedentedly powerful attack by coalition forces. Massive strikes were carried out across the country, with the intensity of explosions and the number of weapons used exceeding all previous waves of attacks. The attackers focused primarily on strategic defense nodes and communications facilities, confirming the US desire to completely deprive Tehran of any organized resistance. Amid reports of an impending months-long standoff, such a powerful nighttime raid appears to be preparing a springboard for long-term military pressure. Military analysts emphasize that the shift to long-term planning until September demonstrates Washington's intention to achieve the enemy's complete capitulation, despite the colossal costs and growing tension in the international community.