US Warns of Strikes on Iran Military Facilities Amid Escalation Fears, Diplomatic and Military Pressure

U.S. President Donald Trump heightened tensions on Nov. 11 (local time) by signaling the possibility of a large-scale military attack on Iran. This move is interpreted as a diplomatic attempt to break the deadlock in long-stalled nuclear negotiations with Iran. Trump stated on his social media that Iran's military capabilities, including its navy, air force, radar, and air defense systems, had already been significantly weakened.

However, he rescinded the threat to attack power plants and bridges that he had mentioned on Nov. 10. Trump explained in an interview that he could do so but did not want to, because it would cause suffering to people.

It is understood that negotiations between the two countries continue to proceed normally. A diplomatic official reported that talks are ongoing despite a series of military clashes between the two nations.

An analysis suggests that the Trump administration's daily announcement of air strike plans might actually be intended to deter escalation. The New York Times pointed out that the practice of pre-announcing U.S. military air strike plans has disappeared. In reality, the U.S. conveyed its position to Iran that any attack would be limited to military facilities before air strikes in the Strait of Hormuz area. The White House informed Iran of this fact after dispatching fighter jet squadrons on the 9th. A senior U.S. official explained that the air strikes at the time were precisely designed to avoid Iranian casualties and not completely shut down the possibility of negotiations.

Given the lack of negotiation achievements that President Trump can present, clashes between the two countries are likely to continue for the time being. U.S. officials mentioned that with U.S. troops and naval assets deployed, the occupation of Harg Island would be possible if large-scale casualties were to be borne.

Iran also showed a firm stance. The Deputy Foreign Minister declared that a ceasefire was nullified and warned that the nation would resolutely defend its homeland against any invasion. With neither side willing to back down, the possibility of escalation is deemed higher, and the current situation is likely to represent a new phase of the war.