Trump's Decision on Iran Expected Within Two Weeks
The White House has announced that President Donald Trump will determine within the next two weeks whether to engage in the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt highlighted that the decision hinges on the prospect of upcoming negotiations with Iran, stating, "Based on the possibility of substantial talks that may or may not happen, I will make my decision within the next two weeks."
Intensification of Iran’s Military Actions
The Iranian military confirmed the launch of a new wave of missile and drone assaults targeting key military sites in Israel, particularly in Haifa and Tel Aviv. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps emphasized an ongoing strategy focused on impactful missile operations aimed at military and industrial locations.
Innovative Missile Threats Tested
Israel's defense forces revealed that Iran deployed at least one missile equipped with multiple warheads, which disperse mid-flight to cover a wider area—posing a novel challenge to Israeli defenses. A submunition was reportedly discovered in central Israel. According to Israeli Defense Forces spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin, Iran has launched over 450 ballistic missiles and 1,000 drones since the escalation began, while Israel has neutralized approximately two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers.
Impact on Israeli Civilian Infrastructure and Response
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged the heavy toll on Israel, stating “all of Israel is paying a price” amid ongoing hostilities. He visited the Soroka Medical Center in Beer Sheva, recently struck by an Iranian ballistic missile. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed an attack on an Israeli intelligence and command center near a hospital, intensifying humanity concerns.
International Reactions and Diplomacy
- Russian Warning: Moscow cautioned Israel against attacking Iran’s Bushehr nuclear facility, warning such action could trigger a catastrophe akin to Chernobyl. Russia, having helped build the plant, expressed serious concerns over the safety of Russian personnel working there.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to meet with European diplomats in Geneva to discuss ongoing tensions. These talks aim to maintain engagement despite the deteriorating situation.
Escalating Military Retaliations
Following the attack on Soroka Medical Center, Israeli leaders have ordered intensified strikes against strategic Iranian targets to destabilize the ruling regime. Concurrently, Iran’s Atomic Energy Organisation condemned the assault on its Arak heavy water complex, asserting no radiological damage as the site was non-operational.
US Support and Ongoing Negotiations
During his visit to the hospital, Netanyahu expressed appreciation for the US’s involvement, noting, “They're participating in the protection of the skies over Israel and its cities. I think it's a remarkable cooperation.” Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff has engaged in multiple conversations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, seeking a diplomatic resolution. However, Iran maintains it will not negotiate unless Israel halts its attacks, though Tehran has hinted at possible nuclear issue flexibility if the US pressures Israel to cease hostilities.
Summary of the Current Situation
- President Trump to decide US involvement within two weeks amid prospective negotiations with Iran.
- Iran launches coordinated missile and drone attacks on Israeli military sites.
- New missile technology employed by Iran challenges Israeli defense systems.
- Key Israeli infrastructure, including Soroka Medical Center, suffers damage.
- Russia warns against attacks on Iran’s Bushehr nuclear plant due to catastrophic risks.
- Diplomatic talks scheduled between Iran and European officials.
- Israel orders intensified strikes aiming to destabilize Iran’s regime.
- Iran confirms attack on its Arak nuclear facility but reports no radiological effects.
- US provides aerial defense support and engages in diplomatic efforts.
- Iran demands cessation of Israeli attacks before resuming negotiations.
