— We have a large armada near Iran. Greater than in the case of Venezuela, Trump emphasized. He refused to discuss the options for action against Iran presented to him by security advisers. However, he stressed that a diplomatic solution was still possible. – They want to make an agreement. I know that. They called many times. They want to talk, said the president.
What conditions must Iran meet to conclude the agreement?
What did Trump say about Iran's readiness to talk?
What military actions does the US plan against Iran?
What does the plan for 25 percent tariffs on countries trading with Iran include?
Iran ready to talk, but not to accept the conditions
U.S. officials emphasize that a potential deal would need to include Iran divesting itself of all enriched uranium, limiting Iran's stockpile of long-range missiles, changing Iran's policy on supporting proxies in the region and banning independent uranium enrichment in the country. The Iranians declared their readiness to talk, but did not signal their willingness to accept these conditions, Axios wrote.
As the website noted, earlier this month, Trump was close to ordering attacks on targets associated with the regime in Iran in connection with the killing of thousands of protest participants by the local authorities. However, he postponed this decision, but at the same time directed military resources to the region. White House representatives emphasize that “an attack is still on the table.”
Last week, Trump said that an American armada was heading towards Iran “just in case.” He also announced that his administration is working on 25 percent tariffs on countries trading with Iran. “If you do business with Iran, you will get a 25 percent tariff,” he said, without revealing details. He announced that the tariffs would come into force soon.
Sources maintain that Trump has not yet made a final decision on a potential attack. He will likely hold more consultations on the topic this week and be presented with additional military options. These capabilities will be enhanced by the arrival in the region of the USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier strike group, which entered the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility on Monday. In addition to this aircraft carrier, more F-15 and F-35 aircraft, more air tankers and air defense systems were sent to the region.
On Saturday, CENTCOM commander Adm. Brad Cooper visited Israel to coordinate military plans and potential joint defense actions in response to Iran's attack on Israel, sources said.
