Trump administration is now plotting a military strike after anti-government protests

In the context of the ongoing anti-government protests and massive loss of life in Iran, the administration of former US President Donald Trump has intensified the threat of a major military operation against the country. The White House said that in addition to diplomacy, multiple military options, including 'air strikes', are being actively considered to keep pressure on Tehran.

On Monday (January 12), White House Press Secretary Carolyn Levitt told reporters that diplomacy has always been Washington's first choice. However, as commander-in-chief, President Trump will not hesitate to use military force if necessary. According to her, the issue of a possible military strike is currently at the center of strategic discussions of the Trump administration.

Hundreds of people are believed to have died in the anti-government protests that began in Iran on December 28 due to the strict repression of the security forces. According to the Al Jazeera report, the Iranian authorities are calling the situation a 'riot' and claiming that many security members have also been killed. However, according to the protesters, the actual number of deaths is much higher, including hundreds of civilians.

Due to the nationwide internet shutdown, it is not possible to independently verify the actual number of casualties. The Trump administration is presenting this situation as an example of the Iranian government's failure and repression in the international arena.

It should be noted that Washington-Tehran relations have been extremely tense since the US bombed Iran's nuclear facilities in June last year. The Trump administration is viewing Iran's tough stance in suppressing the renewed protests as a major 'pretext' for a possible military strike.

However, there is controversy over military strikes on a sovereign country in light of international law. Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reported that a part of the administration, including Vice President J.D. Vance, is advising Trump to avoid military means and return to diplomatic dialogue.

In the meantime, President Trump has claimed that Iranian leaders called him with an offer of talks. In this regard, the White House press secretary said that despite making tough statements in public, Iran is showing a much more flexible position in private talks.

Whether the ongoing Cold War between Tehran and Washington will ultimately escalate into a military conflict or be resolved through negotiations is now a key focus of global politics.

Source: Al Jazeera