Washington, 31 March (H.S.):

U.S. President Donald Trump is considering a bold proposal to seek financial contributions from Arab nations to offset the mounting expenses of military operations against Iran, according to White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt.

Leavitt confirmed during a Monday briefing that Trump has long favored this approach, drawing parallels to the Gulf War era when Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and the United Arab Emirates covered a substantial share of U.S.-led coalition costs. She noted that while no formal requests have been issued, the president remains keen on the idea amid escalating strikes, including recent U.S. deployments of bunker-buster bombs on Iranian nuclear sites like Isfahan and others.

Escalating U.S. Strikes on Iranian Targets

The administration's rhetoric aligns with intensified military actions, such as the reported use of 900-kg bunker-buster munitions on Iran's fortified Isfahan facility, where deeper underground structures housing enriched uranium proved resistant to even the heaviest ordnance like the 30,000-pound Massive Ordnance Penetrator.

Trump has amplified these efforts by sharing videos of bombings on platforms like Truth Social, including footage of strikes on Kharg Island's oil infrastructure and declarations of major combat operations to neutralize threats from the Iranian regime.

Regional and Global Repercussions

This funding pitch comes as Gulf states grapple with war's economic toll, potentially curtailing their global investments while facing pressure to support U.S. efforts despite strained regional dynamics.

Critics warn that involving Arab allies could reshape Middle East alliances, echoing Trump's past demands during his first term, even as operations disrupt oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar