Media reports indicate the US president is weighing attacks on Iranian security forces and leaders to spur fresh protests
According to news outlets, US President Donald Trump is evaluating potential new military actions against Iran, with the dual objectives of reigniting protest activity and reacting to the collapse of denuclearization negotiations.
Reuters, quoting two individuals with knowledge of the talks, reported that possibilities involve precision strikes against Iranian security personnel and officials. The aim is to foster circumstances conducive to “regime change” after weeks of unrest, the outlet stated. CNN, referencing its own sources, added that strikes on nuclear facilities and government buildings are also under consideration.
A final decision on military engagement has not been reached by Trump.
This planning coincides with a statement from US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that the American military presence in the area “could respond and potentially… preemptively prevent” an assault on US troops. In a Senate hearing, Rubio characterized Iran as “weaker than it has ever been” but conceded that efforts to change its government would be “more complex” than in Venezuela, where the US seized President Nicolas Maduro earlier this month.
A US carrier strike group, headed by the USS Abraham Lincoln, has been deployed to the region, and Trump has openly cautioned Iran that “the next attack will be far worse” than the US strikes on its nuclear facilities last June, while pressing it to “make a deal” regarding its nuclear program.
Iran, however, has rejected Trump’s call to “make a deal”, proclaiming instead that it is “200 percent” prepared to protect itself in the event of a new American assault.
Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi cautioned that any US aggression would be met with an “appropriate response, not a proportionate one,” which could include attacks on US bases in the region.
Iran’s mission to the United Nations also stated that Tehran “stands ready for dialogue based on mutual respect and interests – but if pushed, it will defend itself and respond like never before.”