Mike Pompeo: 'Gulf states will have to join US to finish the job on Iran'
Ask Mike Pompeo if there is a risk of an all-out Middle East war, and he not only corrects you; he raises the stakes. "Oh goodness, I think it's far worse than that. That's a global war. Make no mistake about it," he tells The National during an interview in New York. Mr Pompeo, who was CIA director and then secretary of state during US President Donald Trump's first term, ties Tehran, Beijing…
CIA Director and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo warns that the potential for an all-out Middle East war has escalated to a global conflict. He attributes this to Iran, China, and Russia forming a united front. Pompeo claims to have received intelligence reports suggesting China is preparing to send missile systems to Iran, which he finds more likely than not despite the Chinese denying it.
He criticizes the current US administration for not being "America First" regarding Iran and expresses hope for economic pressure, diplomatic outreach, and military action against Iran and its allies. Pompeo asserts that the US is successfully implementing economic sanctions, causing shortages in Iran and reducing living standards.
He emphasizes that military targets are fair game, including infrastructure, but stresses the importance of avoiding civilian harm. He predicts that Gulf states will eventually join the US in dealing with Iran. When asked if Europe is willing to stand by the US, Pompeo acknowledges their recent support against Putin but advises them to "kick themselves in the butt and do more."
He expresses confidence that a free and open Strait of Hormuz is inevitable, as alternatives are considered unworkable for all involved nations.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
