US national security advisor signals major policy moves on Iran, Middle East security

The administration of President-elect Donald Trump is expected to make critical decisions regarding Iran in February, said Congressman Mike Waltz, who will serve as the incoming National Security Advisor.

Waltz emphasized the importance of eradicating Hamas as a terrorist organization, equating its threat to that of ISIS and Al-Qaeda, both of which have inflicted significant violence across the Middle East, Caliber.Az reports citing foreign media.

 He made it clear to Israeli Prime Minister Bibi Netanyahu and his government that, should Hamas violate any agreements, the U.S. will stand firmly behind Israel in taking necessary actions. Additionally, he stated that Hamas must never be allowed to govern Gaza, as their declared objective remains the destruction of Israel and the continuation of attacks similar to the October 7th assault.

Addressing concerns, Waltz affirmed that Prime Minister Netanyahu supported the deal to secure the release of hostages. Within 24 hours, three women will be freed, marking a rare moment of hope amid the brutal conditions in which they have been held. These hostages have endured captivity longer than those in the 1979 Iranian hostage crisis and suffered unimaginable abuse. Waltz described the release as a significant event, drawing comparisons to a "Reagan moment" where President Trump’s inauguration coincides with the hostages’ return.

As for Iran, Waltz acknowledged that US intelligence assessments indicate the country is closer than ever to achieving a nuclear breakout. Despite not reaching a diplomatic resolution during his first term, President Trump refrained from military action.

Although Waltz declined to speculate on specific policy moves, he noted that Israel’s recent successes, including the elimination of Hamas leadership and the assassination of Hezbollah’s leader, Nasrallah, had shifted the regional balance. These actions, coupled with the destruction of Iran's air defenses, have created a strategic window for the US to make crucial decisions in the coming month.

Waltz highlighted that Iran is increasingly on the defensive, with Hamas now isolated and Hezbollah no longer able to provide significant support. This shift has led to an opportunity for decisive actions, especially in Lebanon and Syria, where the fallout from the demise of Assad’s regime continues to reverberate.

By Vafa Guliyeva