President Donald Trump reportedly called off plans to bomb Iran, citing concerns over insufficient military firepower. Sources suggest that U.S. officials advised the president that a large-scale strike might have limited impact and could trigger a much bloodier conflict. Since halting the planned attack, American authorities have been closely monitoring Tehran to determine how to respond to the ongoing protests.
According to the Wall Street Journal, officials from the U.S. and its Middle Eastern allies warned that a massive bombing campaign was unlikely to topple the Iranian regime. Instead, any retaliation by Iran could require the support of partners like Israel. Officials reportedly suggested that smaller, targeted operations could be more effective for boosting the morale of protesters, while cautioning that a prolonged campaign would not dismantle the current government.
Although Trump has not yet made a final decision, he reportedly requested that military assets be ready in case he opts for a major strike, according to a U.S. official. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a briefing that the president and his team have made it clear to Iran that continued violence would carry “grave consequences.” Leavitt added that only Trump and a small group of advisers are privy to his plans.
Leavitt also noted that U.S. intelligence learned Iran was planning the execution of 800 individuals, but Trump chose not to act on that information. She declined to comment on how the intelligence was obtained. The press secretary confirmed that Trump had spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, though she did not provide details or a timeline of the discussion.
Israeli officials have expressed concern over the potential strike, while sources told NBC that CIA Director John Ratcliffe showed Trump videos of dead Iranian protesters as he considered his options. South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham said Thursday that the size of any potential strike remains uncertain. “Should it be bigger or smaller? I’m in the camp of bigger. Time will tell,” Graham said. “The regime’s days are numbered,” he added.
Meanwhile, Iran reportedly contacted Turkey, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman to warn them about a possible U.S. attack. Several U.S. allies, including Turkey, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia, have urged Trump to avoid military escalation. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has been actively engaging with regional leaders, including Iranian officials, in efforts to prevent further conflict.
Comments
Post a Comment