Trump currently in situation room with defense sec, joint chiefs - CNBC citing admin official

Trump currently in situation room with defense sec, joint chiefs - CNBC citing admin official

President Donald Trump is currently in the Situation Room with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and the Joint Chiefs of Staff, according to a CNBC report citing an administration official [1]. The meeting comes amidst escalating tensions between the US and Iran, following recent US strikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites.

The US has confirmed strikes on three sites in Iran: Natanz, Fordo, and Isfahan. These strikes are part of a broader US strategy to counter Iran's nuclear program, which Iran maintains is peaceful. The Natanz enrichment facility, located southeast of Tehran, has been targeted by Israeli airstrikes and the Stuxnet virus in the past. The Fordo facility, located southwest of Tehran, is a heavily fortified site designed to withstand airstrikes. The Isfahan Nuclear Technology Center is home to thousands of nuclear scientists and has been struck by Israel in the past.

The strikes have increased the likelihood of a US strike on the Fordow facility, which is considered the crown jewel of Iran's nuclear program. The US is the only country with the bunker-busting bombs powerful enough to reach the facility. The US has moved B-2 bombers to Guam, reinforcing the possibility of direct US involvement [1].

The strikes have exposed divisions within the Trump administration. Vice President JD Vance has pushed back on the idea of US involvement, while other Republicans, including Trump ally Senator Lindsey Graham, have urged Trump to help Israel finish destroying Iran's nuclear program. Trump has been conflicted about whether to join the Israeli attack or focus on diplomatic efforts to end Tehran's nuclear program [1].

Iran has retaliated with missile and drone strikes in Israel, while Israel has continued to strike sites in Iran. The US and Iran had been in talks that could have resulted in the US lifting some of its economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for Tehran drastically limiting or ending its enrichment of uranium. Until Saturday, Washington had helped shoot down Iranian strikes on Israel but had not launched direct attacks on Iran.

The situation remains fluid, with both sides engaged in a tense standoff. The US and Iran continue to negotiate, while Israel remains on high alert. The future course of action is uncertain, but the strikes have underscored the US's commitment to countering Iran's nuclear ambitions.

References:
[1] https://www.arabnews.com/node/2605349/middle-east