Washington: Military operations against Iran to continue alongside diplomatic efforts
Military operations against Iran continue amid diplomatic efforts
In a significant development, the White House announced that the United States, under President Donald Trump, is continuing military operations against Iran while simultaneously exploring new diplomatic options. This announcement comes amid escalating regional tensions, as the US administration seeks a delicate balance between military pressure and peaceful solutions, with Pakistan emerging as a potential mediator to bridge the gap or convey messages between Washington and Tehran.
Operation Epic Rage and the Pentagon's objectives
In detailing the American position, White House spokeswoman Carolyn Leavitt stated in an official statement to AFP that while President Trump and his negotiating team explore this new diplomatic possibility, the military operation dubbed “Epic Rage” continues unabated. Leavitt emphasized that this operation aims to achieve the strategic military objectives set by the Commander-in-Chief and the Department of Defense (the Pentagon), reflecting Washington’s determination not to back down from its firm stance until its goals are achieved.
Escalation strategy for de-escalation
On the other hand, in justifying this dual strategy, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bisent explained that the United States might find itself compelled to “escalate” its attacks against Iran as a necessary step to end the state of war and tension. In response to a question on NBC’s “Meet the Press” about whether Trump was seeking to end the war or escalate it, Bisent said, “The two are not mutually exclusive. Sometimes you have to escalate in order to de-escalate later.” He added decisively that “this is the only language the Iranians understand,” a clear reference to adopting a policy of harsh deterrence to force Tehran to make concessions.
The historical context of maximum pressure policy
Historically, the US administration, particularly under Trump, has relied on a “maximum pressure” strategy against Tehran. During his previous term, Washington withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and imposed crippling economic sanctions targeting Iran’s oil and banking sectors, accompanied by direct military tensions in the Gulf. Today, the administration appears to be reviving this strategy, but with tools tailored to current circumstances, combining direct military operations with the prospect of diplomatic engagement through regional and international intermediaries.
Regional and international impacts of the escalation
Regionally and internationally, this dual escalation carries profound implications. Locally and regionally, Middle Eastern countries are closely watching the unfolding tensions, as Iranian actions are linked to a network of alliances in the region, and any change in the rules of engagement directly impacts maritime security in the Red Sea and the Strait of Hormuz. Internationally, any military escalation in this vital region immediately affects global energy markets, raising concerns among investors about the stability of oil supplies. Therefore, diplomatic efforts, potentially led by actors such as Pakistan, are crucial to preventing the region from sliding into a wider conflict.
