The U.S.-Israeli war on Iran has entered a new and complex phase, as President Donald Trump adopts a dual strategy that combines enticing offers to end the conflict with a military buildup near Iran, raising concerns about the possibility of a ground invasion.
As details of a 15-point peace plan have leaked, the Pentagon continues to send more troops to the region, causing astonishment in Israel and deep skepticism in Iran regarding Washington's intentions.
Details of the Peace Plan
The Trump administration has presented Iran, through intermediaries from Pakistan, a comprehensive plan that goes beyond merely ceasing hostilities. The plan includes dismantling Iran's nuclear program, halting its ballistic missile program, ending support for regional proxies such as Hezbollah, and reopening maritime corridors in exchange for lifting sanctions.
Israeli Channel 12 reported that Washington is seeking to impose a "one-month ceasefire" to discuss these principles. In a statement, Trump confirmed that the United States is in talks with "the right people," claiming that the Iranian side "strongly desires to make a deal."
Background & Context
These developments come at a time of escalating tensions in the region, where Israel has previously launched attacks on Iran with U.S. support, intensifying Iranian doubts about American offers. Iranian officials have informed intermediaries that they do not wish to fall for a new deception, recalling past experiences.
In June, Israel conducted an attack on Iran just days before talks regarding its nuclear program, reflecting Tehran's apprehension about Washington's intentions. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf denied the existence of any direct negotiations, describing related news as false.
Impact & Consequences
Concerns are growing that the U.S. military buildup could escalate the conflict, as orders have been issued to deploy an additional 1,000 troops from the "82nd Airborne Division" to the Middle East, a force trained for emergency response in hostile territories.
This military buildup, which also includes around 50,000 Marines and sailors, is viewed by the Soufan Center for Research as a maneuver aimed at providing Trump with "maximum flexibility." Some analysts suggest that the option of a ground landing on "Khark Island" remains on the table, although no final decision has been made yet.
Regional Significance
The Arab region is significantly affected by these developments, with Arab nations closely monitoring the situation. Israel, for example, continues to target Iranian sites, further heightening tensions in the area.
In this atmosphere, the role of intermediaries becomes prominent, as Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif seeks to facilitate crucial talks, while countries like Egypt and Turkey are pushing for a meeting in Islamabad. However, the gap between Iranian and American demands remains wide, making a swift agreement difficult.
The upcoming phase appears to be fraught with challenges, as Trump seeks to explore whether Iran will make concessions under the pressure of bombardment, while Iran bets on its influence in energy markets. The war is expected to continue for an additional two to three weeks, complicating the landscape further.