In recent developments regarding U.S.-Iran relations, former President Donald Trump has signaled the possibility of increased military strikes against Iran, particularly in response to the nation’s recent decision to halt cooperation with the United Nations nuclear watchdog. This decision raises concerns about Iran potentially resuming activities related to its nuclear program, which has been a focal point of international scrutiny for over two decades.

During a recent discussion, Trump warned that if Iran were to advance its nuclear ambitions, the U.S. would not hesitate to use its military might to deter such actions. This was echoed by Trump’s nominee for Central Command, who highlighted the ongoing threat posed by Iranian proxy groups, stating that while groups like Hamas and Hezbollah have been significantly degraded, threats from Iranian militia and Houthi forces remain.

Jim Hansen, a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, weighed in on the effectiveness of recent strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, asserting that while the strikes may have caused substantial damage, the core of Iran’s nuclear program still exists. Hansen emphasized that the Iranian regime operates under a unique ideological framework that influences its responses, making it difficult to predict how they will react to military pressure.

The discussion also touched upon Israel’s previous actions, which included targeting key Iranian nuclear scientists, and the intelligence advantages this provided in addressing Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The ability to assess the current state of Iran’s nuclear program remains a challenge, particularly in the absence of oversight from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

As tensions escalate, Trump may consider a return to his “maximum pressure” strategy, which could involve economic sanctions aimed at crippling Iran’s banking system and shutting down its ports. Such measures could be leveraged before resorting to military threats against remaining nuclear facilities.

Domestically, the situation in Iran remains complex. While the Iranian populace continues to suffer under the current regime, signs of civil unrest or protests have not significantly materialized. However, recent events have shaken the belief in the government’s control, potentially signaling a shift in public sentiment that could lead to future upheaval.

As the geopolitical landscape evolves, the dynamics of U.S.-Iran relations remain precarious, with the potential for military conflict looming if diplomatic avenues fail to yield positive results. The international community watches closely as the situation develops, with the hope that diplomacy can prevail over escalation.