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| US President Donald Trump |
US President Donald Trump has said that no talks are currently underway with Iran. He also hinted that a new move concerning the country could come soon. Following his remarks, concern has grown over the possibility of renewed military conflict in the Middle East. In particular, international unease is rising over possible US and Israeli military plans.
Trump answered reporters' questions on Thursday (October 22) before boarding Air Force One, the president's official aircraft. Asked about diplomatic contact with Iran, he said there were no discussions between the two countries. However, he remarked that something could happen soon regarding the situation.
Trump said, "We're not talking to Iran. One way or another, something will happen very soon. Most people think it will be after the midterm elections."
His remarks have fueled speculation about the possibility of fresh military action against Iran. However, Trump did not give details about what kind of step he was referring to. As a result, there is still no clear idea whether he meant a possible military operation, a diplomatic shift, or some other decision.
A Plan to Strike Iran After the Midterms?
Before Trump's remarks, a report by the US news outlet The New York Times revealed information about the possibility of new strikes on Iran. The report said that a plan for a new military attack on Iran is being discussed for after the US midterm elections on November 3. It also stated that the United States and Israel have prepared a draft plan for such a strike.
According to the report, the possible new operation could be shorter than the previous one but far more intense. Besides military installations and key military equipment, Iran's energy infrastructure could also be targeted.
If Iran's energy infrastructure were targeted, it could have a major impact on the country's economy, electricity supply, industrial production, and the daily lives of ordinary people. There are also fears of effects on energy markets and international trade.
However, although the New York Times report mentioned a possible attack plan, it is still uncertain whether the US president will ultimately approve a new military operation. Drawing up a plan and deciding to launch an actual military operation are not the same thing. The next developments will therefore depend on Washington's political and military decisions.
Iran's military capabilities are also under renewed discussion. In particular, the United States and its allies are concerned about the range and striking power of the country's missiles. Various reports have discussed how Iran's missiles could pose a threat to US military installations and warships.
The US military presence in the Middle East and Iran's missile capability could both play important roles in any potential conflict. How Iran would respond if fresh attacks begin will also be crucial in determining the course of events.
Such a conflict may not remain confined to two countries and could affect broader regional security. If military tension between Iran and the US and Israel rises, other Middle Eastern countries could also face security risks. Concerns may also arise over international oil prices, shipping, and the safety of key trade routes.
Earlier, on February 28, the United States and Israel carried out joint strikes on Iran. Reports state that Iran's then Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, several ministers, and senior military officials, among others, were killed in that attack.
Since that attack, the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran has become one of the most significant issues in international politics. Amid military strikes, retaliation, and concerns over regional security, fears have emerged that fresh conflict may begin.
In this situation, Trump's latest comments are being viewed with particular importance. Although he did not directly announce a new attack, he said something would happen soon. He also mentioned the idea that some action might be taken after the midterm elections.
However, the US side's final decision on launching new strikes against Iran remains unclear. No official details have been given about the timing, targets, or scope of any possible military action.
Overall, Trump's statement that talks with Iran are halted, along with the published reports on a possible new attack plan, have made the situation in the Middle East even more uncertain. What direction the situation takes will depend on what decision the US administration makes in the coming days and how Iran responds.