Trump weighing new strikes on Iran as talks stall — CNN
Photo: US President Donald Trump (Getty Images)
US President Donald Trump is increasingly considering resuming large-scale military operations against Iran, more so than at any time in recent weeks. The reason is growing frustration with the progress of negotiations and the ongoing closure of the Strait of Hormuz, according to CNN.
Why Trump angry
The President is dissatisfied with the prolonged closure of the Strait of Hormuz and what he perceives as a rift within the Iranian leadership, which is preventing Tehran from making serious concessions in the nuclear negotiations.
Iran’s latest response, which Trump called "totally unacceptable" and "stupid", has led several officials to question whether Tehran is even ready for serious negotiations.
A regional official stated: despite intense pressure from countries in the region and Pakistan, with reports of Trump’s frustration and that this is Iran’s last chance, Tehran appears to be listening to no one and taking no one seriously.
Divisions within administration
There is no unity within Trump’s team regarding the next steps. Some officials, particularly at the Pentagon, advocate for a more aggressive approach, including precision strikes to further weaken Iran. Others insist on continuing diplomacy.
Questions for Pakistan
Part of the administration has long doubted whether Pakistani intermediaries are conveying Trump’s dissatisfaction to Tehran with sufficient force.
Some officials believe that Pakistan is presenting the US with a more optimistic version of Iran’s position than what corresponds to reality.
What’s next
On Monday, Trump held another meeting with his national security team. No major decision on next steps is expected before the President departs for China, scheduled for Tuesday.
The crisis caused by the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is being felt around the world. In Ukraine, food prices are expected to rise over the course of the year, with the increase likely to occur in two stages.
In Europe, rising oil prices are hitting people’s wallets and driving up inflation. Germany and Spain have been hit hardest, with inflation soaring to multi-year highs.
For the first time in history, the US has begun releasing oil from its strategic reserves to other countries. Türkiye, the Netherlands, and Italy will be the first to receive American fuel. The first shipment is already on its way to Türkiye.
