Trump Threatens Iran With Renewed Strikes, Floats Middle East “Mercenary” Role
The U.S. and Iran have reached a preliminary agreement to end hostilities, though President Trump warned that failure to finalize a nuclear deal could lead to renewed military strikes or a paid...
The U.S. and Iran have reached a preliminary agreement to end hostilities, though President Trump warned that failure to finalize a nuclear deal could lead to renewed military strikes or a paid “policing” role for the U.S. in the region.
Table Of Content
The Path to a Nuclear Agreement
The U.S. and Iran reached a preliminary agreement overnight between Sunday and Monday to conclude their war. Negotiations regarding Iran’s nuclear program are scheduled to commence this Friday.
President Trump warned in an interview with the New York Times that if Iran fails to finalize a nuclear deal, the U.S. will either resume military attacks or act as the “guardian of the Middle East” in exchange for 20 percent of the region’s revenue.
A Shift Toward Mercenary Diplomacy
The New York Times notes that Trump’s proposal to transform the U.S. into a paid police force represents a striking departure from post-war traditions, where American power served to ensure global peace and prosperity rather than acting as a mercenary protection force.
Trump also stated that the agreement would ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains “permanently toll-free.” He claimed credit for saving Israel from nuclear destruction, asserting that his February strikes and subsequent naval blockade of Iranian ports shifted the regional balance in favor of the U.S.
International Dynamics and Criticisms
Trump praised Chinese leader Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin for their cooperation or non-interference during the blockade. He specifically lauded Xi as a “gentleman” for refraining from attempting to break the blockade.
In contrast, Trump harshly criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for attacks that nearly derailed the deal, suggesting Netanyahu should be grateful because Israel would not have survived a nuclear-armed Iran.
Evolving Stance on Iranian Leadership
Trump now characterizes Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, as pragmatists—a significant tone shift from his earlier calls for a public uprising. He acknowledged his previous calls for rebellion but noted that the Iranian people lack the weapons to succeed and would likely be massacred.
He emphasized that if Iranian leaders kill protesters, it will prevent the lifting of sanctions and block their access to $25 billion in frozen funds.