US President Trump announces support for strikes against Iranian missile programme

US President Donald Trump has made comments suggesting that the US would consider further military action against Iran if Tehran rebuilds its nuclear program or missile capacity. Speaking at his Mar-a-Lago estate in Florida, Trump stated that “if they are, we’re going to have to knock them down.” He also mentioned that the US and Israel have been “extremely victorious” in their conflicts with enemies.

Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to his estate and discussed potential military action against Iran. When asked about supporting an Israeli attack targeting Tehran’s missile program, Trump replied, “If they will continue with the missiles, yes. The nuclear? Fast.” He also stated that the US would support an immediate response if Iran continues to pursue a nuclear program.

Iran has denied any ambitions to acquire a nuclear weapon and claims its nuclear program is solely for civilian energy purposes. However, analysts note that Israeli officials and their US allies have raised concerns about Iran’s missiles. In June, Tehran fired hundreds of missiles in response to an Israeli attack that killed top generals, scientists, and civilians.

US Senator Lindsey Graham has warned that Iran’s production of ballistic missiles poses a significant threat to Israel’s air defense system. Trump has also released a national security strategy that calls for the US to shift its foreign policy resources away from the Middle East. However, advocates warn that further military action against Iran could escalate into a broader war.

In June, Iran responded to US strikes with a missile attack against a US base in Qatar, which did not result in any casualties. Trump announced a ceasefire shortly after the Iranian response. Trita Parsi, executive vice president at the Quincy Institute, has stated that an Iranian response would be “much harsher” if the country is attacked again.

Source: Al Jazeera