Tensions Escalate: Trump Considers Ground Strike on Iran as Tehran Faces Heavy Blasts

Washington: The war in West Asia is now into its eighth day, with major attacks from both sides on Saturday. US President Donald Trump seems to be preparing for a ground attack on Iran. He has talked about this with his advisors and Republican leaders. Russia is also indicating indirect involvement in this war.

What did Trump say?

Iran destroyed the American THAAD air defense system in Jordan, which is said to be worth about $300 million. Israel claims that it destroyed 16 Iranian fighter planes. A drone attack at Dubai Airport caused damage to the runway, and falling debris on the Marina Tower caused a fire. Trump said that the US Navy has sunk 42 Iranian ships so far.

Kuwait has reduced oil production and banned exports. America and Israel evacuated thousands of their citizens safely. India also intensified 'Mission Swadesh' – 52,000 Indians have been brought back so far.

How many people killed?

There were massive explosions in Tehran. Israel launched attacks on the Bandar Abbas naval base and Mehrabad airport. The Iranian ambassador says that so far 1332 Iranian citizens have been killed. The Iranian foreign minister said that the US attacked a water purification plant on Qeshm Island, causing drinking water shortage in 30 villages. In response, the Revolutionary Guard attacked Bahrain's Jufair Base. There were explosions in Manama also.

Where did explosions happen so far?

41 more people were killed by Israeli attacks in Lebanon, bringing the total number of deaths to 294. Israel warned the Lebanese President that if Hezbollah does not release its weapons, the entire country will suffer. Saudi Arabia claimed to have foiled an Iranian drone attack on the Shaybah oil field. UAE shot down 125 drones and 6 ballistic missiles in the air.

Attacks in Abu Dhabi and Kuwait also failed. America has approved a new arms package worth $150 million to Israel. Britain is ordered to keep its aircraft carriers ready. 30 thousand Turkish soldiers are on the northern border of Cyprus.

What is next?

Trump is considering small special missions instead of major ground attacks. The White House said that all options are open, no decision has been taken yet. According to the New York Times, the US alleges that Russia is providing Iran with intelligence on American and Israeli targets – satellite images and the locations of warships.