U.S. President Trump Delays Iran Strike Decision

In a significant development, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he would take up to two weeks to decide whether to launch military action against Iran amid the ongoing conflict between Iran and Israel. The announcement, delivered by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, reflects a strategic pause to explore diplomatic avenues.

“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 read from Trump’s statement on Thursday.

Leavitt underscored the administration’s stance: “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 conflict has seen deadly exchanges since last Friday, with Iranian missiles hitting Israeli civilian areas, including a hospital, and Israeli airstrikes targeting Iranian nuclear facilities. Despite the violence, experts note the situation has not escalated to full-scale war.

European foreign ministers planned talks with Iran in Geneva, aiming to revive stalled nuclear negotiations. Trump’s special envoy remains engaged with Iranian officials, though details remain confidential.

Oil markets reacted with a near two percent drop in prices, reflecting investor anxiety over the geopolitical uncertainty. Stock markets were mixed globally, influenced by inflation concerns and trade tensions.

Trump’s forthcoming decision will be critical in determining whether the U.S. escalates military involvement or pursues a diplomatic resolution to the nuclear dispute with Iran.