US President Donald Trump declared he was close to deciding whether to launch a massive attack against Iran, of a greater magnitude than the attacks already witnessed during the conflict with Tehran, which has been ongoing for months.
Speaking to news portal Axios, Trump stated: “I am considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever. I am close to making a decision. We are prepared.”
Trump made these statements on Thursday, as oil prices once again surpassed the symbolic 100 dollars per barrel for Brent crude, the international benchmark, and amid indications that the price could continue to rise.
The president stated that Israel “would join in two minutes if asked,” but added that “we don’t need anyone” to launch a new operation against Iran.
He also warned that there would be “consequences” for Israel if it joined the attacks, hinting at Iranian retaliation against Israel.
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Trump said the Iranians “want to negotiate,” but that for now they are not ready to reach an agreement. “They haven’t suffered enough yet,” he added.
Two regional sources with knowledge of the mediation efforts indicated that the Iranian leadership has not accepted the latest proposal presented, Axios reported.
“We are trying, but the Iranians are not cooperating,” one of them stated.
Trump’s statements came after the previous threat of “severe military punishment” against Iran and the Houthis, after the Tehran-backed Yemeni militia attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea.
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