The US and Israel hold joint air force drills, showcasing military capabilities towards Iran amidst concerns over a closing window for a nuclear deal. Analysts note Trump’s administration is leaning towards hawkish strategies while indications of diplomatic negotiations still exist. The focus remains on curtailing Iranian oil exports as a key pressure point in negotiations.
The United States and Israel conducted a significant joint air force drill in the Eastern Mediterranean region, which included the participation of long-range bombers. These exercises demonstrated the US’s military capability to target Iran’s underground nuclear facilities, acting as a warning to Tehran amid rising tensions. As President Trump faces increasing pressure over Iran policy, analysts suggest that his opportunity for engaging in a nuclear deal may be diminishing.
Israel’s F-35 and F-15 fighter jets joined a US B-52 bomber in coordinated military exercises, underscoring a firm US stance towards Iran. While this show of force aims to deter Iranian aggression, mixed domestic influences complicate Trump’s approach, pushing him between hardliners and isolationists regarding future negotiations with Iran.
Analyst Triti Parsi highlighted that a “unique window of opportunity” for the Trump administration to negotiate a nuclear deal is rapidly closing. He suggested a shift toward a more hawkish stance on Iran, diverging from the America First ideology. Parsi argued that this approach threatens to sabotage any potential agreement, recalling earlier conflicts that hindered diplomatic progress during Trump’s first term.
Trump’s administration appears set on imposing stringent measures to limit Iranian oil exports, recognizing that oil revenue significantly funds Iran’s activities. Plans to inspect Iranian oil tankers at sea under the Proliferation Security Initiative may manifest soon. This aligns with Trump’s intent to reestablish a “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, particularly spotlighting its ties with China, the main buyer of Iranian oil.
Despite the administration’s hardline stance showcased by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other officials, hints of a willingness to negotiate linger. Trump’s envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has indicated interest in a diplomatic resolution, and discussions involving influential figures, like Elon Musk, have surfaced, suggesting a softer position may exist in Trump’s circle.
The recent US-Israel air drills emphasize a pronounced military stance against Iran while indicating that diplomatic options are not entirely off the table. As President Trump grapples with internal factions advocating for varying strategies, the window for a nuclear agreement with Iran narrows. The administration’s heavy focus on disrupting Iranian oil exports underscores its commitment to a hawkish policy, even amidst subtle hints of potential negotiations. The evolving geopolitical landscape, particularly with Gulf states and shifting alliances, may significantly influence future US-Iran relations.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
