U.S. President Donald Trump has said that he is seriously considering the resumption of large-scale military operations against Iran, adding that any potential strikes could be broader and more severe than the “Operation Epic Fury” campaign.
In an interview with the U.S. news outlet Axios, Trump said that the possibility of a “major attack” is being evaluated, but that no final decision has been made so far. He added that any military action would have significant consequences, and therefore the decision is being carefully assessed.
At the same time, two U.S. officials said that no decision has yet been made regarding new military operations against Iran, and that the U.S. military has not received any new orders in this regard.
Trump claimed that Israel could participate in any potential operation if necessary, but stressed that the United States does not need assistance from any other country to conduct operations against Iran. He also said that possible Israeli involvement could trigger a response from Iran.
The U.S. president said that Iran has shown an interest in negotiations but is still not ready to reach an agreement. According to him, Tehran has rejected recent diplomatic proposals.
The remarks come as Iran-backed Houthi forces have carried out attacks on vessels in the Red Sea, once again raising concerns over the security of international commercial shipping routes.
Trump warned that if the Houthis launch further attacks in the Red Sea, the United States will hold Iran responsible and said that both Iran and the Houthis would face a severe military response.
Writer:Saeed Sameer
