De-escalation in the Middle East: President Trump Talks to Media

On Wednesday, January 8, President Trump made remarks to the media, informing them that no US troops were harmed during the Iranian missile strikes on bases in Iraq. The US President stated that, for the moment, he has decided to take the off-ramp, and not make any more violent actions against Iran.

“All of our soldiers are safe and only minimal damage was sustained at our military bases,” reported Trump. “Iran appears to be standing down, which is a good thing for all parties concerned and a very good thing for the world,” said the President, pointing out the positivity of the de-escalation.

President Trump stood by his actions, justifying once more the killing of Qasem Soleimani on January 3, following his orders. 
"Soleimani's hands were drenched in both American and Iranian blood," said the American President. "He should have been terminated long ago."

Trump made sure to not come off as if he were backing down from the confrontation, announcing that “Iran will never have a nuclear weapon” as long as he is President. He additionally reported that he is going to institute more “powerful” sanctions against Iran, calling on the world leaders to join in and diminish the country’s nuclear pursuits.

By Nini Dakhundaridze   

Image source: The Gray Zone.