US President Donald Trump is expected to decide within the next two weeks whether the United States will engage militarily in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict, the White House said on Wednesday.
In a statement to reporters, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Trump was weighing the possibility of US involvement, citing the potential for diplomatic engagement with Tehran.
“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.
The statement comes amid rising tensions in the region following weeks of hostile exchanges between Israel and Iran.
Leavitt said the US administration considers it a fact that “Iran has never been closer to obtaining a nuclear weapon,” adding that the president continues to receive regular briefings from intelligence agencies and the National Security Council.
“President Trump remains in constant communication with our Israeli counterparts, most notably, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,” she noted.
She further said the president remains committed to diplomacy but will not hesitate to use force if necessary. “President Trump has made it clear he always wants to pursue diplomacy, but he is unafraid to use strength if necessary.”
