Iran can give terrible injury to Trump. Image:AP
There has been long-standing tension between Iran and the United States over the nuclear program. Amid the growing presence of US forces in the Middle East, Iran faces the threat of major attacks by the world’s most powerful military, potentially targeting its leaders, military, nuclear sites and critical infrastructure.
Iran does not have as many capabilities as America. It has become even more vulnerable after Saturday’s war and recent anti-government protests launched by Israel last year. But it can still cause huge damage to American forces and allies. If the existence of the Islamic Republic comes under threat, it will have to do so.
In June last year, Iran was attacked for 12 days by Israel and America, in which Iran’s major nuclear sites, missile stockpiles and military leadership were heavily damaged. US President Donald Trump had claimed that Iran’s main nuclear sites have been completely destroyed. However, Iran says its nuclear program is still underway but is not able to enrich uranium and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors have been prevented from visiting key sites.
Iran’s nuclear program
Iran claims its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes such as power generation, but the US and Israel suspect it is secretly trying to develop nuclear weapons. Before the attacks, Iran had enriched uranium to 60%, which is very close to weapons-grade (90%). After the attacks Iran said it was no longer enriching, but the status of stockpiles and underground facilities was unclear. The IAEA is unable to access some sites, particularly Isfahan and other locations where highly enriched uranium may be hidden.
Iran’s position in the war
If Iran has a full-scale war with the US or Israel, Iran will be very weak militarily. America has aircraft carriers, advanced weapons and the support of allied countries. Iran’s long-range missile stockpile was significantly damaged in previous attacks, but it still has hundreds of missiles that can reach Israel. Short-range missiles can attack US bases in the Gulf countries.
Iran has many ways to inflict pain
Qatar can launch missile and drone attacks on US bases in Saudi Arabia, UAE and Jordan. The Strait of Hormuz could close, affecting global oil supplies and causing prices to skyrocket. Attacks can be carried out through proxy groups Houthi and Hezbollah. Iran is trying to buy Chinese YJ-12 anti-ship missiles, which can target US warships.
Experts say Iran is weak, but it wants to show its ‘bloody nose’ to America so that it is not in constant danger. Regional war could lead to oil crises, widespread attacks and instability.
Also read: “Take over your government, it will be yours”, Donald Trump appealed to the public after the attack on Iran.