Following attacks by Israel and the US on Iran, with retaliation strikes hitting neighboring countries, Trump keeps all military options open.
Mediator’s Unorthodox Move
He effectively conveyed to the world that Tehran had agreed to capitulate. It’s quite an unorthodox move for a mediator to reveal details of the talks. The Omani likely saw this as a last resort that could help avoid a major war in the Middle East.
Conflict Escalates
That, however, did not happen. The next morning, Israelis and Americans began massive attacks on the Islamic Republic, while the Iranians responded with strikes, among others, on the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan. It is difficult to predict in which direction this conflict will develop. Perhaps the world is facing another long war that will claim thousands of victims in several countries.
Trump’s Open Options
It is not, however – though less likely – that all sides will decide to de-escalate in a few days. Donald Trump keeps all options open. “I can go full scale and take control of everything, or end this in two to three days and tell the Iranians: See you in a few years if you start rebuilding your nuclear and missile programs,” he said in an interview with the Axios portal.
