President Trump stated that it is "highly unlikely" he will order new bombings of Iran if talks with the country progress. He made this statement in a phone interview with CNN's Jim Sciutto, where he repeated the phrase "highly unlikely" multiple times.
The US is currently engaged in indirect talks with Iran via Qatari and Gulf mediation, with a focus on Iran's nuclear program and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump's comments come as Iran's economy is struggling with high inflation, and the US is seeking to negotiate a strong agreement.
The president also mentioned that the US has identified potential targets in Iran, including power plants and bridges, in the event of renewed military action. However, he emphasized that he would prefer not to take military action if possible. The situation is complex, with the US seeking to support the Iranian people while also taking a tough stance against the Iranian government.
Some have pointed out that taking out bridges and vital infrastructure would hurt ordinary Iranians, who are already suffering under sanctions and economic hardship. The US has three aircraft carriers in the region, which Trump said are "fully locked and loaded" in case military action is necessary.
According to CNN, Trump believes it is "highly unlikely" he will take the US to war against Iran again, but he also said that US forces are in place to do so if needed.