Iran-US Tension: Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reached Washington amid increasing tension between America and Iran. Issues like Iran’s nuclear program, ban on ballistic missiles and stopping support to Iran-backed groups will be prominent in his meeting with US President Donald Trump. Interestingly, with Netanyahu’s arrival in America, Donald Trump has deployed a second aircraft carrier strike group near Iran. This is making the atmosphere even more serious.

Netanyahu has indicated that he will present to Trump the important principles of the ongoing negotiations with Iran, which are important for the security of not only Israel but the entire Middle East. Israel has long wanted Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities and regional networks to be included in any agreement. Israel is Iran’s neighboring country and has the biggest objection to Iran’s nuclear program.

Netanyahu arrived, war fleet increased

1. According to American media reports, President Trump is considering deploying a second aircraft carrier strike group near Iran.
2. The USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group, which includes fighter jets, Tomahawk missiles and several warships, are already in the area.
3. Trump said, one of our fleets is going there and it is possible that another one may also be sent. This deployment indicates military preparations like the 12-day war that took place last year.

Preparation for war and negotiations simultaneously

However, along with military pressure, diplomatic efforts are also continuing. Last Friday, US and Iranian officials held the first direct talks in Oman since the conflict in June. Trump said that the second round of talks could take place next week. He also warned that either we will compromise or we will have to take very tough steps like last time. Trump claimed that this time Iran is negotiating seriously and wants to compromise badly. According to him, last time Iran had taken American intentions lightly but now the situation is different.

What is Iran’s stance?

Tehran’s stance is clear in this matter. Iran says it will only negotiate on its nuclear program and will not give up its right to enrich uranium. However, it has also been said that if America removes all its sanctions, then it can reduce its uranium enrichment program by 60 percent. Ali Larijani, advisor to the Supreme Leader of Iran, has met the Sultan of Oman and the Foreign Minister. Larijani described Israel’s role on social media as destructive and advised America to remain cautious.

Amidst all this, America has issued an advisory to commercial ships flying its flag to stay away from Iranian waters, which has further increased the level of military alertness in the area. Overall, on one hand, diplomatic efforts are going on in the US-Iran issue, while on the other hand, military pressure is also being increased. In the coming days it will be decided whether the matter moves towards agreement or conflict.