# Maximum Pressure

Brinkmanship in the Strait: Washington's Dual-Track Gamble as Iran Conflict Escalates

Nearly a month after joint U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran, Washington is balancing ceasefire negotiations with a massive influx of paratroopers and amphibious forces. This strategic ambiguity suggests either a high-stakes effort to gain leverage in peace talks or preparations for a major ground operation to seize the Strait of Hormuz.