Donald Trumphas been warnedthat Iranhas “nothing to lose” as speculation mounts that the US President is poised to ordermilitary action. Former defence ministerTobias Ellwoodsaid the US president was “boxing himself in” by escalating pressure on Tehran while simultaneously signalling that he does not want a wider conflict.
Mr Ellwood said: “Trump will attack. He's boxing himself into a corner. But he does not want to get involved. So he will leave it hanging, making the situation very dangerous. There will be a civil war, and the army will win.” Mr Ellwood added that in Mr Trump’s mind, there has “never been a better time to punish Iran”.
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However, he added: “Trump’s looming airstrikes will not provide a workable solution,” adding they are likely being done for political effect.
He explained: “It looks good back at home, but it risks opening Pandora’s box in the Middle East. Iran has nothing to lose.”
Mr Ellwood's remarks come as the White House has stepped up its military posture in the region.
The US has moved an aircraft carrier and other military assets to the Persian Gulf while suggesting it could strike Iran over the killing of peaceful demonstrators or if Tehran carries out mass executions following nationwide protests.
A second aircraft carrier is now off the coast of Morocco and could head towards the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
Mr Trump has also pushed Iran’s nuclear programme back into focus after a June war disrupted five rounds of talks previously held in Rome and Muscat, Oman. Two further rounds of negotiations have taken place, but have yet to produce a deal.
Source: Daily Express :: World Feed
