With US-Iran nuclear talks stalled, an Israeli military operation is reportedly on the table.
Citing sources, several US news outlets reported Thursday that Israel is prepared to militarily strike Iran.
Concerns about a potential Israeli strike and subsequent Iranian response have reportedly led the US to reduce its diplomatic presence and allow families of military personnel to leave regional bases. This escalation could also disrupt ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran.
CBS News reported that West Jerusalem is fully prepared to commence an operation, citing multiple anonymous US officials. The New York Times corroborated the report, quoting US and European officials familiar with the plan. However, the newspaper noted that the scope of the potential military action remains unclear.
ABC News, citing three sources, reported that it’s uncertain if the US would participate in a potential Israeli attack. The US might provide logistical support and intelligence, the outlet stated. CBS News quoted an American official who said the US military would likely help Israel defend itself against Iranian retaliation.
These fears of an Israeli strike coincide with stalled nuclear talks between the US and Iran. Negotiations mediated by Oman have failed to achieve a breakthrough, and Washington has expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of progress. US President Donald Trump has accused Tehran of “slow-walking” the talks and stated he is now “less confident” about reaching an agreement.
While Iran has expressed willingness to negotiate, it has refused to completely abandon uranium enrichment, a goal previously set by Trump.
Rising tensions in the Middle East have prompted the US to evacuate non-essential personnel and family members from its embassies and military bases in the region. Media reports suggest this move is driven by concerns that these facilities could be targeted by Iran if Israel attacks.
“Based on our latest analysis, we decided to reduce the footprint of our Mission in Iraq,” the State Department said in a statement Wednesday. Voluntary departures were also authorized for personnel at the embassies in Kuwait and Bahrain. The Pentagon has also approved the departure of family members from military bases in the region.
Trump withdrew from the 2015 UN-backed nuclear agreement during his first term, accusing Iran of violating its terms and “spirit.” Tehran has denied these accusations but has since reduced its commitments and increased its enriched uranium stockpile.
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