Trump may resume strikes on Iran if talks fail
What's the story
United States President Donald Trump is reportedly considering a major decision on Iran. According to The New York Times, his top aides are preparing to resume air strikes if diplomatic efforts fail. This development comes soon after Trump's talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where they discussed the situation in Iran and its impact on the Strait of Hormuz.
Military readiness
Preparations for 'Operation Epic Fury' underway
The Pentagon is reportedly preparing for all contingencies, including the possible resumption of "Operation Epic Fury." Military planners are said to be getting ready to resume air strikes under a new operational name after last month's ceasefire. Regional intelligence indicates a tilt toward escalation, with US and Israeli forces engaged in their largest joint preparations since the ceasefire.
Nuclear agreement
US and China agree on Iran, but no pressuring asked
Trump has confirmed that he discussed Iran with President Xi, but did not ask Beijing to pressure Tehran. Both leaders agree that "Iran can't have nuclear weapons" and that the Strait of Hormuz must be opened. However, Trump dismissed Iran's latest peace proposal, indicating his firm stance on the issue despite other nations' efforts to broker a compromise. "I looked at it, and if I don't like the first sentence, I just throw it away," Trump told reporters.
Taiwan tensions
Taiwan also discussed during Trump-Xi talks
During his talks with Xi, Trump also discussed Taiwan, which remains a contentious issue between the US and China. Trump said Xi does not want to see a "fight for independence" in Taiwan because that would be a very strong confrontation. Xi had privately warned that differences over Taiwan could lead to clashes or conflict between the two nations. Despite these tensions, both leaders seem to have reached an understanding on Iran and Taiwan during their recent discussions.