Fears of new airstrikes on Iran are being raised following the midterm elections in the United States. According to a report by the Associated Press (AP), Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is pressuring US President Donald Trump to launch large-scale military action against Iran. The report cites regional officials and three individuals with knowledge of the matter. Trump has not yet made a final decision.
What Does Netanyahu Want?
According to the report, Netanyahu wants new military airstrikes against Iran to commence following Tuesday's US midterm elections.
He advocated for this during a phone conversation with Trump over the weekend and has also engaged with senior US administration officials. Trump has not agreed.
The report claims that in last week's election, Netanyahu and his right-wing allies lost their majority in parliament. In such a scenario, a new war could provide him with political support regarding national security and an opportunity to form an emergency government.
On the Other Hand, Talks Continue
Qatari mediators held two rounds of talks with Iranian officials last week.
The proposed agreement involves Iran halting attacks in the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for the US lifting the blockade on Iranian ports.
New rounds of discussions are also expected this week.
Trump and US Stance
On Sunday, Trump stated that his conversation with Netanyahu went well and that Iran was also discussed, though he did not provide details.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Trump has not reached a final decision. The administration prioritizes diplomacy, but retains the capability and willingness to take military action if necessary.
Arab Nations Fear a Regional War
Several US ally nations oppose new attacks and are apprehensive about regional destabilization.
According to regional officials, Houthi rebels could intensify attacks on Saudi Arabia and commercial shipping in the Red Sea under such circumstances, and Iran-backed groups active in Iraq might also get involved.
Speaking at the Manama Dialogue, UAE Presidential Advisor Anwar Gargash warned that if differences are not resolved, the situation could deteriorate severely. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that the next conflict could be far more dangerous and destructive than previous ones.
Iran's Stance: "Prepared for Both War and Talks"
Iran's new Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, told military officials to immediately respond to any threat from the US or Israel. He also mentioned expanding the list of potential targets.
Iran seeks solid guarantees from the US regarding the enforcement of provisions in any agreement. Its officials assert that the US and Israel have previously launched attacks on Iran even during nuclear negotiations.
China's Diplomatic Initiative
According to Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning, China's special envoy will visit Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia in the first or second fortnight of November. President Xi Jinping has stated that the Persian Gulf should not become an arena for competition among major powers.
