U.S. President Donald Trump will determine within the next two weeks whether the United States will join Israel in its ongoing conflict with Iran, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt announced on Thursday, emphasizing that diplomatic options with Tehran remain under consideration.
During a White House briefing, Leavitt conveyed a message from President Trump, who noted the “substantial chance” for negotiations with Iran, despite intensifying hostilities 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,” Trump stated, as read by Leavitt.
She also reaffirmed the administration’s firm stance on Iran’s nuclear program, stating, “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 escalating tensions following Israel’s launch of Operation Rising Lion on June 13, targeting Iranian military and nuclear sites. Iran has since responded with counterstrikes, resulting in continued clashes across the region.
President Trump, addressing reporters a day earlier, dismissed speculation that a military plan had already been authorized, reiterating his preference for diplomacy. “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,” he said.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz on Thursday called for direct action against Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accusing him of personally ordering a strike on Soroka Hospital in southern Israel.
“Khamenei openly declares that he wants Israel destroyed — he personally gives the order to fire on hospitals. Such a man can no longer be allowed to exist,” Katz asserted.
While military options remain on the table, the White House maintains that diplomatic engagement with Iran remains possible. President Trump is expected to make a final decision on potential U.S. involvement within two weeks.