The White House is preparing for the possibility of a military confrontation that could last days or even weeks with Iran, amid escalating tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, while the administration of US President Donald Trump affirmed that the duration of the escalation will depend on whether Tehran continues to target commercial ships in the vital waterway.

Axios quoted a US official as saying that the current escalation 'could last a day or two, or a week or a month,' adding: 'We will deliver a limited strike so they understand we are not kidding.'

According to the report, the US administration believes that the conflict, which began with the aim of weakening Iran's missile capabilities and targeting its nuclear program, has turned into an open confrontation over the security of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy corridors.

The report pointed out that diplomatic efforts have faltered, as military pressure has returned to the forefront of Trump's strategy, who declared that the 60-day ceasefire stipulated in the memorandum of understanding with Iran 'ended' after attacks targeting commercial ships.

Axios added that the United States launched a new round of strikes near the Strait of Hormuz, which for the first time in months included targeting facilities inside Iran, while Tehran responded with attacks on US bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, reaffirming its stance on the strait.

Despite the escalation, Trump hinted at the possibility of de-escalation, saying that Iranian officials have contacted Washington and expressed their desire to reach an agreement, but he expressed doubt about Tehran's commitment to any future understandings.

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In contrast, Iranian Parliament Speaker and chief negotiator Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf accused the United States of 'breaking promises,' stressing that reopening the Strait of Hormuz would be 'according to Iranian arrangements, not under US threats.'

According to the report, reopening the strait and ensuring freedom of navigation have become a key goal for the Trump administration, while Iran considers maintaining its influence in the strait one of its most prominent cards in any negotiations to end the confrontation.

The website quoted US officials as saying that the White House believes it has more room for escalation after hundreds of oil tankers successfully crossed the strait in recent weeks, easing fears of an immediate spike in oil prices.

US Vice President JD Vance affirmed, according to the report, that Washington's position is 'simple,' saying: 'The Strait of Hormuz must remain open,' warning that any attempt to close it will be met with a US military response.