Trump postponed escalation of war with Iran due to missile shortage — The New York Times
U.S. President Donald Trump has so far abandoned plans to sharply intensify the military campaign against Iran. The reversal in the decision was prompted by warnings from military officials about the risk of a rapid depletion of missile stockpiles for Patriot air defense systems and other air defense assets in the Middle East, reports The New York Times, citing sources in the White House.
According to the publication, a key conversation took place during a meeting with advisors and cabinet members. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Kane warned Trump that large-scale strikes would provoke an even more powerful response from Tehran. This would lead to a rapid expenditure of interceptors needed to defend American bases in Jordan, Kuwait, Bahrain, and the UAE.
The ammunition situation, according to the publication, has already reached a critical level — by the end of April, the Pentagon had spent more than 1200 Patriot interceptor missiles, each costing $4 million. Since then, according to military estimates, the state of stockpiles has only worsened.
In addition to the missile shortage, the administration fears broader consequences of escalation: the involvement of Persian Gulf allies in the conflict, a new jump in energy prices, an economic crisis, and migratory pressure. Moreover, some officials doubt that military pressure will force Iran to the negotiating table rather than unite its leadership.
Instead of a large-scale military operation, the White House is considering another plan, supported by Trump's advisors, including Jared Kushner. The plan involves continuing negotiations with Tehran combined with increased economic pressure and sanctions.
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