US considers supporting Israel in potential Iran attack as second carrier deployed to Middle East amid nuclear talks.
Attack on Iran?
Donald Trump is considering supporting Israel during a potential attack on Iran. According to unofficial CBS News reports, high-ranking US military and intelligence officials have discussed providing fuel for Israeli planes in the air and the possibility of their overflight. Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have stated they will not agree to such measures.
CBS News noted these discussions are accompanied by a US “show of force.” A second aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R. Ford, will be sent to the Middle East with a flotilla of warships, as the US prepares for a potential long-term military campaign if nuclear negotiations with Tehran fail.
Iran will not give this up
Iran has threatened to respond to any attack by striking US bases in the Middle East. However, Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi suggested to the BBC a willingness to compromise in exchange for eased sanctions. Iran maintains it will not abandon uranium enrichment.
Iranian diplomats seek a nuclear agreement with the US that would bring mutual economic benefits. “Common interests in oil and gas deposits, mining investments, and even aircraft purchases are subject to negotiations,” stated Deputy Director for Economic Diplomacy Hamid Ghanbari, according to the Fars news agency.