U.S. President Donald Trump said he would not use nuclear weapons against Iran and does not foresee sending ground troops. His comments followed a CNN report on new U.S. strike plans, including possible use of the non-nuclear MOAB. Meanwhile, the UKMTO says the threat in the Strait of Hormuz remains severe.
President Donald Trump said he does not intend to use nuclear weapons against Iran or foresee deploying ground troops in the country. Speaking in an interview with Newsmax, broadcast Thursday evening, he addressed reports that Washington is weighing new strike options.
Trump told Newsmax: "I wouldn't use nuclear. We don't have to." Asked whether he would put troops on the ground, Trump answered that he does not see that.
MOAB strike plans draw a response
The interviewer asked Trump about reports that Washington was considering using the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast, or MOAB. Trump said the bomb is not nuclear, without specifically confirming or denying the reports.
CNN reported earlier on Thursday that the U.S. military has developed new strike plans targeting Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear sites. The strikes could take place if Trump orders combat operations to resume, either before or after the midterm elections, the outlet reported. The White House did not immediately respond to CNBC's request for comment.
However, Trump said on Oct. 8 that he would not order a resumption of military strikes before the Nov. 3 midterm elections.
Hormuz shipping faces heightened risk
Merchant shipping through the Strait of Hormuz faces heightened risks after a series of attacks in the waterway. The United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations said the threat remains severe after the Singapore-registered container ship GFS Pride was struck by an unknown projectile, caught fire and later sank.
The UKMTO added that deliberate hostile action was highly likely. It recorded eight attacks in the waterway since Oct. 11.
Source: CNBC
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