The US military has asked its own personnel for new, creative and unconventional ways to increase pressure on and impose punitive measures against Iran, CNN reported. A senior official in US Central Command’s intelligence branch sent an internal email to military analysts last week seeking proposals, according to two sources familiar with the message. The request comes as the Trump administration seeks ways to bring Tehran to negotiations on US terms.

CENTCOM spokesperson Captain Timothy Hawkins said the command believes in innovative thinking and action, and that Admiral Cooper seeks ideas from team members regardless of rank. The report said the United States has conducted sustained air strikes for weeks to weaken Iran’s military capability and return Tehran to talks, but no sign of an agreement has emerged. CIA, DIA and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Caine have assessed that the current air campaign is unlikely to significantly alter Iran’s negotiating position.

Sources said the administration is considering strikes on nuclear sites including Pickaxe Mountain, while planners believe deeply underground facilities may require ground forces to destroy completely. The report cited major military and political risks and said 18 US troops have been killed in the conflict. Other options under discussion include a one- to two-week air campaign, seizing Kharg Island and a symbolic strike.