United States President Donald Trump has said further American military attacks on Iran are highly unlikely if negotiations aimed at ending the conflict continue to make progress, signalling a possible shift towards a diplomatic resolution of the prolonged confrontation.
Trump made the remarks during a telephone interview with CNN on Sunday, November 8, as Washington and Tehran continue efforts to reach an agreement addressing the conflict and outstanding security concerns.
According to a report by Reuters, Trump said the possibility of renewed military action would depend largely on whether Iran agreed to a strong deal.
“It depends on whether or not they sign a very strong agreement,” Trump said, according to CNN.
He added: “The answer is, highly unlikely it’s going to be necessary.”
TRUMP WARNS OF POTENTIAL INFRASTRUCTURE TARGETS
Despite expressing confidence in the possibility of a diplomatic settlement, Trump indicated that the United States had identified additional infrastructure targets inside Iran should military operations resume.
He specifically mentioned bridges that Washington could target in the event of renewed hostilities.
“We have 38 bridges in our site that we can knock down in literally one hour,” Trump said during the interview.
His remarks suggest that the United States continues to maintain military options even as diplomatic discussions remain underway.
However, Trump did not provide further details about the identified targets or explain the circumstances under which Washington might authorise additional attacks.
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DIPLOMATIC EFFORTS CONTINUE
The latest comments come as diplomatic activity surrounding the conflict continues, with regional countries playing important roles in efforts to prevent further escalation.
Qatar has been involved in mediation efforts between Washington and Tehran, seeking to encourage dialogue and prevent the confrontation from expanding across the Middle East.
The negotiations are particularly significant because of unresolved disagreements surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme, regional security and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a strategically important waterway for international energy supplies.
Any agreement between the two countries could have wider implications for regional stability, international trade and global oil markets.
UNCERTAINTY REMAINS OVER POSSIBLE AGREEMENT
Although Trump’s latest remarks indicate a preference for avoiding further military action if negotiations succeed, significant questions remain over whether both countries can reach an agreement acceptable to their respective governments.
Washington has maintained pressure on Tehran over its nuclear ambitions and regional activities, while Iran has continued to defend its position on national sovereignty and its right to pursue what it describes as a peaceful nuclear programme.
The latest diplomatic developments therefore leave the possibility of a negotiated settlement open, although the threat of renewed military confrontation has not been completely removed.
