Overview
- The Wall Street Journal reports Trump told the Pentagon on January 13 to prepare strikes on Iran but pulled back after advisers warned of limited regional assets and risks of a prolonged conflict, with Arab partners also cautioning against an attack.
- Trump unveiled phased U.S. import tariffs on Denmark, Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands and Finland tied to Greenland, starting at 10% on February 1 and rising to 25% on June 1, saying they would remain until a deal to acquire the island.
- European capitals have moved small military contingents to Greenland, drawing a swipe from Trump about the island’s meager defenses, while Denmark and Greenland reiterated that their territorial integrity must be respected.
- Separately, Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran, a move Iraqi experts say threatens Iraq’s economic interests given its sizable trade with Tehran, and he said it is time for Iran to seek new leadership.
- Argentina says it was invited to join the U.S.-led Gaza peace council as a founding member, with Canada, Egypt and Turkey also invited; FT reports the body could be presented next week in Davos, and U.S. figures named include Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, Tony Blair and Ajay Banga.