Trump Keeps US Options Open Amid Israel-Iran Conflict
US President Donald Trump shared guarded remarks on the possibility of American military action alongside Israel against Iran, indicating that no final decision has been made yet. Speaking on Wednesday at the White House, Trump suggested that significant changes could be on the horizon for the Iranian regime.
Uncertain US Involvement
Pressed about whether the United States might join Israel in striking Iranian nuclear and military sites, Trump responded, “Sure. Anything could happen.” He further added that a collapse of the Iranian leadership “could happen.” These comments come after several days of Israeli airstrikes targeting crucial Iranian infrastructure, escalating fears of a wider regional clash.
Yet, Trump stopped short of committing to direct US military engagement. When asked if he would authorize strikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities, he offered a noncommittal response: “I may do it, I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do.”
A Pivotal Moment in the Region
The president hinted that a decisive turn might be imminent, noting, “Nothing is finished until it is finished,” and predicting that “the next week is going to be very big— maybe less than a week.” His remarks reflect the volatile nature of the crisis as all sides prepare for what could be a critical juncture.
Iran's Defiant Response
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei sharply rejected US demands for surrender, dismissing threats against his country. In a televised address, he said, “Intelligent people who know Iran, the nation and the history of Iran will never speak to this nation in the language of threats, because the Iranian nation cannot be surrendered.”
Khamenei underscored the high cost of any foreign military intervention, warning that it would cause “irreparable damage.” This defiant stance directly challenges both Israel and the US, as discussions continue around possible expanded military actions.
Broader Implications and Divided Opinions
With Israeli strikes already in their sixth day, speculation grows about Washington’s next moves. Trump’s cautious yet enigmatic position has stirred debate even within his own party, splitting opinions on how aggressively the US should support Israel’s campaign.
Both Israel and the US remain adamant about preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, though Iran continues to deny any such ambitions.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains fluid and fraught with uncertainty. As regional tensions mount, the coming days are poised to be critical in defining the future of this longstanding conflict.