Middle East live: US strikes Iran for third night as Trump says deal still 'possible'
The United States launched a fresh salvo of strikes against Iran early Tuesday, marking a new escalation in the resumption of hostilities, even as US President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran was
The United States launched a fresh salvo of strikes against Iran early Tuesday, marking a new escalation in the resumption of hostilities, even as US
Read Full Story at France 24 →Why This Matters
This latest escalation underscores a dangerous paradox in U.S.-Iranian relations: the simultaneous pursuit of military deterrence and diplomatic engagement. With each night of strikes, the Biden administration risks reinforcing Tehran’s perception of Washington as an unreliable interlocutor, even as it leaves the door open for negotiations. The pattern suggests a high-stakes gamble—one that could either force Iran to the table or push it toward more radical responses.
Background Context
Since the 2015 nuclear deal’s collapse under Trump, Iran has incrementally expanded its nuclear program while launching proxy attacks across the region, from Yemen to Iraq. The Biden administration initially sought to revive diplomacy, but recent strikes reveal a shift toward coercive measures, mirroring Trump’s "maximum pressure" strategy in its intensity, if not its stated goals. Meanwhile, Iran’s regional proxies have grown bolder, testing the U.S. military’s resolve in ways that could redefine the balance of power.
What Happens Next
The next 72 hours will be critical: Iran’s response will determine whether this escalation spirals into a sustained conflict or serves as a temporary deterrent. Analysts are watching for whether Tehran orders retaliatory strikes against U.S. assets or its allies in the Gulf, which could trigger a broader conflagration. Meanwhile, the administration’s next move—whether another round of strikes or a diplomatic overture—will signal whether it can reconcile its dual strategy of pressure and engagement.
Bigger Picture
This episode fits a broader pattern of U.S. foreign policy under successive administrations, where military posturing and diplomacy often operate at cross-purposes. The Middle East’s shifting alliances—where traditional allies like Saudi Arabia hedge their bets—suggest a region increasingly skeptical of Washington’s long-term commitments. As proxy wars and shadow conflicts intensify, the risk is not just a localized clash but a systemic erosion of stability in an already volatile geopolitical arena.
