Washington, United States. President Donald Trump said the United States was considering “winding down” its military operation against Iran as Iran and Israel traded attacks on Saturday and Iranian media reported that the nuclear enrichment facility in Natanz had been attacked.
Trump signals possible shift in U.S. posture
In a social media post, Trump said the United States was close to meeting its goals but said other countries should take the lead in policing the vital shipping lane of the Strait of Hormuz, whose near-closure threatens a global energy shock.
“We are getting very close to meeting our objectives as we consider winding down our great Military efforts in the Middle East with respect to the Terrorist Regime of Iran,” Trump said on Truth Social.
“The Hormuz Strait will have to be guarded and policed, as necessary, by other Nations who use it — The United States does not!” he added. “If asked, we will help these Countries in their Hormuz efforts, but it shouldn’t be necessary once Iran’s threat is eradicated.”
Mixed messages complicate allied responses
Trump and his administration have sent mixed messages about U.S. goals throughout the war, now entering its fourth week, leaving traditional U.S. allies struggling to respond.
In less than 24 hours, Trump suggested the war could wind down as the Iranian threat was being eliminated, while at the same time U.S. Marines and heavy landing craft were headed to the region on a mission whose goals were not immediately clear.
Casualties and economic risks cited amid ongoing fighting
More than 2,000 people have been killed in Iran since the U.S. and Israel attacked on February 28, while Americans appear increasingly concerned at signs the war could expand further.
Vital energy infrastructure in Iran and neighbouring Gulf states has been attacked, sending oil prices up 50% and threatening a global economic shock.
Trump also accused NATO allies, which have not been consulted about the war, of cowardice over their reluctance to help open the Strait of Hormuz.
Iranian media reports strike on Natanz; Israel denies knowledge
Iranian media said U.S.-Israeli forces attacked the Shahid Ahmadi-Roshan Natanz enrichment complex on Saturday morning.
Technical experts found that no radioactive leaks had occurred and nearby residents were not at risk.
Israel said it was unaware of such a strike.
How do you think international policing of the Strait of Hormuz would affect global energy markets?