Iran’s leadership used the two months following its June memorandum of understanding with the United States to prepare for a broader conflict rather than de-escalate, the Wall Street Journal reported Monday, citing Iranian and Arab officials.
According to the report, hardline leaders viewed the agreement as a possible attempt by Washington and Israel to ease economic pressure and buy time before another attack.
Tehran has coordinated with allied armed groups in Yemen, Iraq and Lebanon as the conflict has expanded beyond the Persian Gulf, the Journal reported.
It said Iran has been rebuilding damaged military infrastructure and restoring access to missile bases faster than Israeli officials expected, while retaining sufficient firepower to threaten US forces, shipping and Persian Gulf energy infrastructure.
The report comes as the 60-day MoU reaches its expiry with negotiations stalled and Tehran and Washington showing little sign of backing away from their positions.
