Rising Tensions: Iran's War Preparations Amid US Threats
As tensions rise between Iran and the United States, there are apprehensions of a possible war. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has entrusted Ali Larijani, the top national security official, with the survival of the country in case of war or assassination. At the same time, a US intervention aimed at collapsing the regime in Iran appears increasingly likely, though experts believe the Iranian system is particularly resilient.
Background and Context
The current situation underscores the escalating tensions in the Middle East. While the Iranian leader has been preparing for a possible assassination or conflict, there are speculations of a blitz in Iran targeting Khamenei. Ross Harrison, a specialist in the Islamic Republic, told Le Monde that an American intervention aimed at collapsing the regime is increasingly possible.
Tehran is not only preparing for a potential conflict but also strengthening its alliances. Corriere della Sera reported that Iran is readying Hezbollah in anticipation of war and reinforcing its ties with Moscow. It also reported a tripling of US forces in Lebanon within a week.
Key Developments
In this volatile scenario, Iran's succession plans are in place. As reported by The New York Times and Middle East Eye, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has instructed Ali Larijani and several senior officials and members of the Revolutionary Guard to ensure the survival of the state in the event of US attacks.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has given Iran an ultimatum to reach a nuclear deal within ten days or face war, as reported by ANSA. A new round of nuclear negotiations is underway, with Europe set to become the intersection of diplomacy and hard power, according to Tehran Times.
Reactions and Implications
The situation has elicited diverse reactions. Exiled Iranian Princess Noor Pahlavi made an impassioned plea for President Donald Trump's help, saying the Iranian regime had never been so close to being overthrown. She made these remarks in an interview with The California Post, as reported by Fox News.
Simultaneously, Trump's threats of limited military strikes on Iran may backfire, risking a new destabilizing conflict in the Middle East, as reported by the South China Morning Post. The US, however, is seemingly prepared for a large-scale military action with little public explanation or debate, as observed by Clarin.
Current Status
As of now, the threat of a US-Iran war seems imminent and could possibly span weeks. This prediction comes after the latest round of nuclear talks, as reported by The Times of Israel.
Nevertheless, President Trump has announced a US contribution of $10 billion to the Board of Peace, emphasizing the cost of war and expressing hope for peace in the region. Despite the rising tensions and preparations for war, the dream of lasting harmony in a region marked by centuries of warfare and suffering remains alive.