United States President Donald Trump announced Thursday he will decide within two weeks whether to join Israel’s military strikes against Iran, citing ongoing diplomatic possibilities.
The statement came amid heightened tensions following Israel’s recent attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt relayed Trump’s message, noting widespread speculation about potential U.S. involvement. “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Trump said in an official statement.
The announcement follows days of escalating rhetoric, including Trump’s characterization of Iran’s leader as an “easy target” and his vow to prevent Tehran from obtaining nuclear weapons.
However, Leavitt warned of Iran’s nuclear capabilities, stating: “Iran has all that it needs to achieve a nuclear weapon. All they need is a decision from the supreme leader to do that, and it would take a couple of weeks to complete the production of that weapon.”
Trump claimed Wednesday that Iran had requested White House negotiations regarding its nuclear program and conflict with Israel – an assertion Tehran denied. Leavitt declined to specify what prompted Trump’s optimism about potential talks but emphasized: “If there’s a chance for diplomacy the president’s always going to grab it, but he’s not afraid to use strength as well.”
The president held his third Situation Room meeting in as many days Thursday, weighing whether to support Israel’s bombing campaign. When previously asked about potential U.S. military action, Trump responded: “I may do it, I may not do it.”
A critical factor is America’s exclusive possession of massive “bunker buster” bombs capable of destroying Iran’s fortified Fordo nuclear enrichment facility. The White House urged Trump’s base to maintain faith in his decision-making process, with Leavitt stating: “Trust in President Trump. President Trump has incredible instincts.”
This appeal comes as some prominent MAGA figures, including Tucker Carlson and Steve Bannon, publicly oppose U.S. military intervention in Iran. Trump’s longstanding pledge to end America’s “forever wars” in the Middle East significantly contributed to both his 2016 and 2024 electoral victories.
The administration continues to pursue a replacement for the 2018-abandoned Iran nuclear deal, even as it considers military options. Leavitt confirmed ongoing “correspondence” between U.S. and Iranian officials but provided no details about Special Envoy Steve Witkoff’s reported communications with Iran’s foreign minister.
