As the conflict between the United States, Israel, and Iran approaches nearly a month, there are still no clear signs that the parties are close to reaching a desired outcome or agreement.
Although the U.S. President, Donald Trump, has once again stated that Iran wants to reach a deal—and according to him, this is also what the U.S. wants—the Iranian side has not confirmed his remarks.
In his latest statements, Donald Trump said: “Iran wants peace and a deal, which is also what we want. We also want to reach an agreement soon. We are holding consultations and will meet today; we may even talk by phone.”
The U.S. President also Pointed to America’s partners in the Middle East, saying that allies are being considered in all discussions and hold a key role in regional matters.
Meanwhile, some media reports suggest that Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates may side with the United States and Israel against Iran in the ongoing conflict—something that could significantly change the course of the war.
Political analyst Wahid Faqiri said: “If Iran’s attacks on Gulf countries continue, Arab nations will be forced to act to defend their sovereignty. They may join the U.S. and take military action against Iran, which is their right.”
At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Defense claimed it had shot down four Iranian drones but said no damage or casualties were reported.
On the other hand, Iran has once again issued a warning, stating that it will continue the war until the attackers are fully punished and made to regret their aggression.
The Speaker of Iran’s Parliament, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, dismissed any talks with the United States as false and said Trump’s statements are intended to manipulate financial and oil markets.
He added: “Our people demand that the attackers be punished to the point of full regret. All officials firmly stand behind the leader and the people until this goal is achieved. No talks have taken place with the U.S. These are fake reports aimed at influencing financial and oil markets and escaping the situation in which the U.S. and Israel are trapped.”
Meanwhile, the European Union has once again expressed deep concern over the ongoing conflict and emphasized the need for dialogue to end it.
The President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, said that some EU countries are preparing to participate in a mission to protect the Strait of Hormuz after the conflict.
She added: “It is very important that we find a solution through dialogue to end the conflict in the Middle East. We are already feeling the indirect effects of this crisis on gas and oil prices, trade, and our societies.”
It is worth noting that after a drop in oil prices on Monday, the price of crude oil rose again above $100 per barrel. On Tuesday, oil prices in Asia increased by nearly 4 percent, reaching over $103 per barrel.
Oil prices had fallen by 10 percent on Monday after President Donald Trump delayed strikes on Iran’s energy facilities and said that constructive talks had taken place with Iran.
