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Key Points

President Trump will decide in two weeks whether the US will join Israel in its conflict with Iran. The White House insists diplomatic talks remain possible despite escalating tensions. Israel’s defense minister has called for direct action against Iran’s Supreme Leader. Trump has emphasized military action as a last resort if Iran pursues nuclear weapons.

Key Points: Trump Weighs US Military Role in Israel-Iran Conflict Within Two Weeks

  • Trump weighs military action against Iran within two weeks
  • White House pushes for Iran’s nuclear disarmament
  • Israel’s Katz calls for direct action against Khamenei
  • Diplomatic talks remain an option despite conflict
2 min read

Trump to decide in two weeks on US involvement in Israel-Iran conflict: White House

Trump to decide on US involvement in Israel-Iran war amid escalating tensions, White House confirms diplomatic talks still possible.

"I’m not looking to fight. But if it’s a choice between fighting and having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do. – Donald Trump"

Washington, DC, June 20

US President Donald Trump will decide within the next two weeks whether the United States will join Israel in its ongoing war with Iran, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Thursday (local time), citing a continued possibility of diplomatic engagement with Tehran.

Addressing a briefing at the White House, Leavitt read out a statement from President Trump, who acknowledged the potential for diplomatic negotiations despite the escalating conflict in the Middle East.

"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," Leavitt quoted the President as saying.

Leavitt also reiterated the administration's stance on Iran's nuclear program. In response to a question about the contours of any possible deal with Iran, Leavitt said, "No enrichment of Uranium and... Iran is absolutely not able to achieve a nuclear weapon. The President has been very clear about that."

The remarks come amid heightened tensions following nearly a week of military strikes between Israel and Iran. President Trump, speaking on Wednesday, dismissed suggestions that he had already approved a military plan and reiterated his preference for a diplomatic resolution.

"I'm not looking to fight. But if it's a choice between fighting and having a nuclear weapon, you have to do what you have to do," Trump said.

The conflict escalated on June 12, when Israel launched 'Operation Rising Lion', targeting Iran's nuclear and military facilities. Iran has since retaliated, resulting in intense exchanges across the region.

On Thursday, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz called for direct action against Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, citing Iran's attack on Soroka Hospital in southern Israel a day earlier.

"Khamenei openly declares that he wants Israel destroyed - he personally gives the order to fire on hospitals. He considers the destruction of the state of Israel to be a goal; such a man can no longer be allowed to exist," Katz said.

The White House continues to maintain that while military options remain on the table, diplomatic engagement with Iran is still possible. Trump is expected to make his final decision on the matter within the next two weeks.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

Here are 5 diverse Indian perspective comments on the US-Israel-Iran conflict:
R
Rahul K.
As an Indian watching this conflict, I hope diplomacy prevails. The Middle East tensions directly impact our oil prices and diaspora safety. Trump's unpredictable nature makes this situation even more volatile. India should prepare contingency plans for oil supply disruptions.
P
Priya M.
The hospital attack mentioned is heartbreaking 💔. But India must stay neutral - we have good relations with both Israel and Iran. Our government should offer mediation help if possible. Remember how we safely evacuated Indians from conflict zones before? That's the priority now.
A
Arjun S.
America getting involved will only make things worse. Look at Iraq, Afghanistan - US intervention never brings peace. India should strengthen ties with Russia and China to create a counter-balance in global politics. Our foreign policy needs to be more assertive.
S
Sneha R.
The nuclear angle is most concerning. If Iran gets nukes, Pakistan might feel emboldened too. India's security is at stake here. But war isn't the solution - sanctions and diplomatic pressure worked before, they can work again. Hope cooler heads prevail 🤞
V
Vikram J.
Interesting how Trump says "I'm not looking to fight" after selling billions in weapons to Middle East countries. The hypocrisy! India should learn from this - we must become self-reliant in defense like the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision. No more depending on foreign powers for security.

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