Trump Considers Limited Military Strike on Iran, Sets Deadline for Nuclear Deal

US President Donald Trump has announced his consideration of a limited military strike on Iran to pressure the regime into accepting a nuclear deal, according to various international media reports. The decision is expected within the next 10 to 15 days. However, Trump has declined to clearly state his reasons for considering an attack at this time, leading to speculation and debate.

Background and Context

Tensions between the US and Iran have been escalating over Iran's nuclear aspirations. Trump has previously stated that all that matters to him is whether he thinks an attack is in his interests, The New York Times reports. The Trump administration has reportedly amassed an arsenal of military assets in the Middle East, indicating preparedness for an aerial bombing campaign against Iran.

Key Developments and Details

According to the Wall Street Journal, the potential strike could be limited to specific government buildings or military sites, and may not be significant enough to provoke a full-scale retaliation from Iran. However, some reports suggest that the strikes could expand and possibly target individual leaders, potentially leading to a regime change, if Iran continues to refuse to give up its nuclear program.

Trump has set a ten-day deadline for Tehran to reach an agreement or face potential military action, RT (Russia Today) reports. We have to make a meaningful deal. Otherwise, bad things happen, Trump said.

The president's threats have been met with defiance from Iran, which has stated that all Middle East assets of a 'hostile force' are fair game if the US attacks, as reported by The Times of Israel. The country's foreign minister also announced that a draft proposal for an agreement with Washington would be ready within days.

Implications and Reactions

While some view the potential limited strike as a viable means of pressuring Iran into a deal, others warn that such an action could backfire, potentially igniting a new destabilizing conflict in the Middle East. The Guardian reports that the Pentagon has prepared a massive deployment to the region, including two aircraft carriers, fighter jets, and refuelling planes, providing Trump with the option to launch limited or extended operations against Iran.

Critics argue that the lack of a clear explanation for the potential military action has left the public and Congress unprepared for a possible conflict. Rarely in modern times has the United States prepared to conduct a major act of war with so little explanation or public debate, The New York Times points out.

Current Status

As negotiations continue and the deadline looms, the world watches closely to see if a peaceful resolution can be reached. Amid the heightened tensions, Trump has emphasized his commitment to peace, announcing a $10 billion contribution to the Board of Peace, according to Fox News. However, the president has also warned that if Iran fails to reach a deal within the set timeframe, bad things will happen.