Khaberni - US President Trump said today (Tuesday) in a phone interview with Israeli Channel 12 that if an agreement with Iran is not reached, he will be ready to take military action as he did in the Twelve-Day War last June.
The United States and Iran resumed negotiations last Friday in Oman for the first time since the Twelve-Day War that broke out last June. Despite Trump affirming his desire to reach an agreement, the intensive American military buildup in the Gulf gives him leverage to pressure the Iranians, allowing him to act quickly if the talks fail.
Trump said "The Iranians really want to make a deal. Either we make a deal, or we have to do something very tough—as we did last time."
The American president added that he is considering sending another aircraft carrier to the Middle East, accompanied by its strike group, which includes several additional destroyers.
He mentioned that "We have a fleet there, and maybe another fleet on the way."
A high-level American official confirmed that there are ongoing discussions to bolster American forces in the Middle East with another aircraft carrier.
Currently in the region, the American aircraft carrier "USS Lincoln" and its strike group, which includes several warships, are present.
Sending another aircraft carrier would enhance the American military presence in the region to the level it was during most of the two-year Gaza War.
President Trump is expected to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House on Wednesday to discuss the Iranian file.
This visit will be Netanyahu's seventh to the United States since Trump took office last January.
Netanyahu told reporters before boarding the plane to Washington: "I will present our understanding of the principles of negotiations (with Iran) - the fundamental principles that matter not only to Israel but to everyone seeking peace and security in the Middle East."
Trump mentioned that he is expected to speak with Netanyahu in their meeting tomorrow, focusing mainly on the Iranian file. He said the change of meeting date was due to scheduling reasons and no other.
Trump added: "I don't think Netanyahu has withdrawn from negotiations with Iran. He also wants a deal, and he wants a good deal."
