Iran is reportedly preparing for a prolonged confrontation with the United States and could intensify the conflict in the coming days, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal.

The report claims that hardline leaders in Iran have drawn up a secret plan to prepare for a larger conflict. The alleged strategy includes increasing missile production, strengthening military control and continuing attacks on ships in the Strait of Hormuz.

The claims have emerged just after the 60-day US-Iran agreement expired, with both sides appearing further apart rather than closer to a broader settlement.

Iran’s hardliners prepare for bigger fight

According to the Wall Street Journal report, intercepted communications and other intelligence indicate that Iran’s hardline leadership has made a strategic shift aimed at increasing the cost of the conflict for the US and its regional allies.

Iranian and Arab officials reportedly said that hardline leaders gathered in Tehran and developed a separate strategy. They allegedly viewed the agreement as an attempt by the US and Israel to reduce pressure on the global economy and gain time before a possible future attack.

Instead of relying fully on negotiations, the officials said Iran used the past two months to prepare for a larger confrontation.

IRGC gains greater military control

The reported changes include giving the powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps greater control over Iran’s regular military.

The hardline faction has also reportedly placed soldiers with experience from the Iraq war and previous domestic conflicts in important positions. At the same time, Iran has increased domestic counter-intelligence operations and stepped up production of missiles and drones.

Hormuz becomes key part of strategy

Iranian leaders have also reportedly focused on strengthening their control over the Strait of Hormuz. Attacks on ships have been used as an immediate pressure tactic, while the reported strategy could potentially widen the battlefield towards the Red Sea.

The report said Iranian leaders have been calling for increased attacks against targets in what they consider ‘enemy territory’.

US-Iran tensions rise after 60-day deal ends

Arab intelligence officials have reportedly gathered evidence, including communications between Iran and allied militias in Yemen and Iraq, pointing towards a change in Tehran’s strategy.

The developments come after the US-Iran memorandum signed in June expired on Monday, August 17. The agreement had provided a 60-day period for the two countries to work towards a permanent settlement.

Instead of reaching a final agreement, Washington and Tehran now appear to be facing deeper tensions.

UN calls for fresh US-Iran talks

The United Nations has urged both countries to return to negotiations and seek a lasting solution to the dispute.

A spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he had called on Iran and the US to resume talks, stressing that there is no military solution to the conflict.

The appeal comes as concerns grow that the failure of the 60-day framework could lead to further escalation in the region.