Washington/Tehran: Amid the fierce conflict between America and Iran in the Middle East, a major decision by US President Donald Trump has created a stir in global politics. After warning of destroying Iran and carrying out massive attacks, the US administration has currently stepped back from carrying out fresh direct military attacks (airstrikes) on Tehran. In the recent developments, amid diplomatic warnings from Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries and ongoing diplomatic talks, Washington has indicated to stop the attacks. Let us know what are the main reasons due to which the Trump administration had to change its mind about military action against Iran.
1. Concerns of Gulf countries and intervention of the Saudi Crown Prince
The primary reason for Trump’s decision to change is believed to be the increasing pressure from Gulf allies. According to reports, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke directly with Trump over the phone and urged him to de-escalate tensions. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) fear that if the US launches a major attack on Iran’s energy or infrastructure, Iran could retaliate by targeting the Gulf countries’ oil refineries and infrastructure, plunging the entire region into crisis.
2. The Strait of Hormuz and the Global Energy Crisis
One-fifth (20%) of the world’s crude oil passes through the Strait of Hormuz. Due to the war, Iran has established tight control over this sea route and has attacked commercial ships. If the US were to escalate direct attacks, Iran could completely block this route, causing global oil prices to skyrocket and adversely affecting the US economy.
3. Possibility of backchannel diplomacy and negotiations
Trump clarified on social media and in press conferences that the US could halt attacks if Iran agreed to abide by the terms of the peace deal and reopen maritime trade routes. Pakistan and other mediating countries are trying to reach a workable agreement through backchannel diplomacy between the US and Iran.
4. Political pressure from the US Congress and war spending
The US Senate and House of Representatives are continuing to vote and debate on the War Powers Resolution. With the Pentagon demanding billions of dollars in additional budget money and the upcoming US elections in mind, there is widespread anger among the American public about the protracted war.
5. Fear of threat to regional security and US bases
US military bases are located in countries like Iraq, Syria, and Kuwait. Iran-backed groups are constantly launching drone and missile attacks. Military experts believe that direct conflict would pose a significant threat to thousands of US troops and US embassies in the Middle East.