President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that he would decide within two weeks whether to authorize a military strike against Iran, signaling a pause amid rising tensions in the Middle East. The announcement came as Israel and Iran continued exchanging missile attacks, with Iran’s missiles recently striking a hospital in southern Israel, wounding at least 240 people.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed Trump’s message: “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 emphasized Trump’s dual approach: “The president is always interested in a diplomatic solution… he is the peace through strength president. And so if there’s a chance for diplomacy, the president’s always going to grab it. But he’s not afraid to use strength as well.”
The U.S. has been considering a strike on Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility, a heavily fortified underground site. Diplomatic efforts continue, with Trump’s special envoy maintaining contact with Iranian officials despite Iran’s withdrawal from nuclear talks following Israeli airstrikes.
Meanwhile, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz vowed to intensify military operations after the Iranian missile attack on Soroka Medical Center in Beersheba, which caused minor injuries. Israel launched further airstrikes on Iranian nuclear targets, including a complex at Arak.
Markets reacted to the uncertainty with crude oil prices dropping about two percent. Investors remain cautious as geopolitical risks and the impending end of a U.S. tariff pause weigh on global markets.
Trump’s decision in the coming weeks will be pivotal in shaping the trajectory of the Israel-Iran conflict and U.S. involvement.