Strategic Distance
The renewed war between the United States and Iran has again placed American and Israeli military interests on apparently common ground.
The renewed war between the United States and Iran has again placed American and Israeli military interests on apparently common ground.
Fresh statements from Tehran and Washington point to deepening confrontation, with both sides hardening their public positions even as the US says it remains open to diplomacy.
The Pentagon told lawmakers the conflict has already cost $37.5 billion and warned of readiness shortfalls without additional funding, while also alleging Russia and China are enabling Iran's military operations.
Explosions were reported across southern and central Iran after the US announced a new military offensive, while Kuwait activated air defences and regional tensions continued to spread.
Iran's Revolutionary Guard claimed it received intelligence from individuals in Jordan to strike US military targets, as Washington continued air strikes and regional tensions spread across the Gulf.
Iran says ongoing negotiations with the US are currently aimed at ending the conflict, while Trump insists Washington will not sign a “bad deal” with Tehran.
CBS News claimed Mojtaba Khamenei is operating through hidden courier channels after wartime strikes, complicating Iran’s communication with the Trump administration.
Iran and the US remain divided over crucial clauses in a proposed peace agreement, with Tehran warning it will not compromise on frozen assets and other core demands.
Israel has warned it can restart military action against Iran at any moment even as diplomatic talks involving Washington and Tehran continue over ceasefire and nuclear issues.
Dr. Abdul Majid Hakim Elahi, representative of Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, attended the Taziati Jalsa and Majlis-e-Tahrim (mourning gathering) held at Dargah-e-Fatman on Saturday night as the chief guest.
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