'This might be the opportunity — in the absence of casualties — for the two sides to now say: 'okay we have each done something, we can stand down,'' said Richard Schmierer, former U.S. ambassador to Oman.
Schmierer said that Iran's attacks on the Iraqi bases was "a very serious military undertaking" that showed Tehran "can reach American forces in the region." That could deter Trump from further flaming tensions with Iran, the ambassador said.
"Going forward, that might cause President Trump to be less willing to take the kinds of steps that he took last week," he added.hours after the attack that "All is well! Missiles launched from Iran at two military bases located in Iraq." He said the U.S. was assessing casualties and damages. "So far, so good! We have the most powerful and well equipped military anywhere in the world, by far!" he added.
That Twitter post suggested that Trump may be prepared to deescalate tensions with Iran, especially if there are no casualties from the strikes, said Schmierer.
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