The ongoing standoff between the US and Iran has rendered the Middle East fragile and tense. Just hours before the significant meeting in Oman, military forces of both nations have already taken confrontational stances. Reports from American media claim that US fighter jets have locked their target on the secret bunker of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The pressing question is whether President Donald Trump is prepared to order an attack if the Oman talks collapse?
Meanwhile, the meeting mediated by Qatar, Turkey, and Egypt aims to discuss Iran’s nuclear and missile programs. Hosted by Oman’s Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, notable figures like Abbas Araqchi from Iran and Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff from the US will attend. However, before the talks commenced, US military forces shot down an Iranian drone over the Arabian Sea, displaying military prowess from both sides ahead of the discussions. The US has increased its military presence in the region, while Iran has conducted missile tests and revealed a new underground missile center.
Source: aajtak
'Slim Chances for Peace'
Reports indicate that achieving success in the Oman meeting seems increasingly unlikely. The primary reason is the profound discord regarding the meeting's agenda. The US demands discussions on Iran's missile program alongside the nuclear issue, while Iran is firm on addressing only nuclear matters. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has already hinted at the slim prospects of a deal. The inflexible stance from both nations suggests a shift from diplomacy towards military solutions.
Iran Declares Readiness for Conflict
On the eve of the meeting, Iran's Chief of Staff Major General Seyyed Abdolrahim Mousavi delivered an open challenge to the US. Apart from testing missiles, Iran inaugurated a new underground missile center. Mousavi firmly stated that there would be no discussion on Iran's missile program, warning that even the smallest misstep from foes would unleash counteraction, leaving no American safe. Iran claims to possess the full capability to 'ignite' the US and its allies.
Source: aajtak
Khamenei's Advisor's Stern Warning
Advisors to Iran's Supreme Leader, notably Ali Akbar Velayati, adopted a tough stance. He emphasized Iran’s lack of intent to attack but warned that as pillars of resistance, they stand firm against any foreign adversaries like the US and Israel. Iran insists on defending its sovereignty at any cost. Conversely, American defense experts believe Trump's strategy is to apply maximum pressure, coercing Iran into submission without war.
Trump's Strategy
President Donald Trump has laid out a comprehensive military and diplomatic strategy against Iran. His ultimate goal may include not just military actions but also destabilizing the Khamenei regime. The US intends to support protests within Iran, instigating internal unrest. Nevertheless, the strongest hindrance to this plan is Iran’s steadfast military support for Khamenei. If the Oman talks fail, rapid escalation in the Gulf region cannot be ruled out in the coming hours.
