Trump Pledged Support for Israeli Strikes on Iran’s Missile Program, Sources Reveal
President Trump, during a December meeting at his Mar-a-Lago estate, expressed support for Israeli airstrikes on Iran’s missile program. This support hinges on the outcome of negotiations between the United States and Iran, according to credible reports provided to CBS News by two anonymous sources.
Rising Tensions and Military Discussions
Internal discussions among senior U.S. military and intelligence officials are currently assessing future Israeli military actions against Iran. The focus has now shifted from whether Israel might act to how the U.S. could facilitate these operations. Potential support includes refueling Israeli aircraft and securing overflight permissions from neighboring countries.
However, overflight permissions remain uncertain. Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates have publicly stated they will not allow their airspace to be used for any military action against Iran.
U.S. Military Presence in the Middle East
In a related development, the U.S. is enhancing its military presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, along with its associated strike group, is scheduled to depart from the Caribbean to the Middle East. This deployment aims to bolster U.S. firepower amid rising tensions with Iran.
- Carrier Name: USS Gerald R. Ford
- Deployment Area: Middle East
- Current Presence: Substantial U.S. military assets
Ongoing Nuclear Negotiations
The Trump administration continues to pursue negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has consistently voiced skepticism about diplomatic efforts. He has traveled to Washington multiple times to discuss the need for any agreement to include stricter controls on Iran’s ballistic missile program and regional proxy funding.
Iranian officials have hinted at a willingness to limit some uranium enrichment in return for relief from severe economic sanctions. Details of such an arrangement remain vague, and no formal agreements have been established thus far. A second round of nuclear talks is expected to occur in Geneva, with Iranian delegation officials on their way to the discussions.
Statements from U.S. Officials
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has emphasized the preference for diplomatic solutions with Iran. U.S. envoy Steve Wiktoff, alongside Jared Kushner, is expected to participate in critical meetings focused on the ongoing negotiations.
As tensions escalate, President Trump views the military buildup as a necessary measure should diplomatic efforts fail. This strategic positioning enhances U.S. influence and serves as leverage in the ongoing negotiations with Iran.
