Trump to Decide Within Two Weeks on Possible U.S. Military Role in Israel-Iran Conflict
U.S. President Donald Trump has announced he will decide in the next two weeks whether the United States will join Israel in military action against Iran, as the White House weighs diplomacy against the risk of war.
The president’s statement, delivered by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, said there remains a “substantial” possibility of negotiations with Tehran, and that any military response will be delayed to allow room for diplomacy.
“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,” the statement read.
The announcement comes amid rising tensions following Israeli strikes last week on Iranian military and nuclear facilities. While speculation has grown over possible U.S. involvement, Leavitt clarified that the delay is a “strategic pause,” not hesitation. “If there’s a chance for diplomacy, the president’s always going to grab it,” she said, “but he’s not afraid to use strength as well.”
Leavitt further warned that Iran could build a nuclear weapon “within a couple of weeks” if it chose to do so—a claim Iran has consistently denied, insisting its nuclear program is peaceful.
Despite the growing crisis, the U.S. and Iran have maintained indirect communication since the Israeli strikes. However, the White House confirmed that Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, will not attend upcoming Geneva talks between European diplomats and Iran’s foreign minister.
Trump has been holding daily national security meetings ahead of a NATO summit in the Netherlands on June 23, marking three consecutive days of high-level Situation Room discussions.
The president also claimed Iran had expressed interest in sending officials to the White House for talks—a claim denied by Tehran. His administration remains divided, with prominent figures in the “Make America Great Again” movement, such as Steve Bannon and Tucker Carlson, voicing strong opposition to U.S. military engagement.
Trump, who campaigned on ending “forever wars” in both his 2016 and 2024 runs, now faces a pivotal decision that could reshape Middle East dynamics and redefine his foreign policy legacy.
The White House urged the public to trust the president’s judgment. “Trust in President Trump. President Trump has incredible instincts,” said Leavitt. A final decision is expected by early July.
