Trump's Looming Decision: U.S. Military Response to Iran Expected in Two Weeks
President Donald Trump is anticipated to decide within a fortnight on whether the United States will engage in direct military action against Iran, as stated by White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt. This announcement arises amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, following Iranian missile attacks on Israel and heightened concerns about a broader regional conflict.
Conveying a message from the president during Thursday's briefing, Leavitt remarked, “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiation that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go in the next two weeks.”
While Leavitt refrained from providing specifics about communications with Iran, she confirmed that diplomatic correspondence “has continued,” suggesting the possibility of a negotiated settlement.
However, any agreement would necessitate Iran halting uranium enrichment and relinquishing any path toward a nuclear weapon, she noted.
In discussions with reporters on Wednesday, Trump expressed uncertainty regarding potential strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites, stating, “I may do it, I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do.”
He criticized Tehran for not pursuing diplomatic solutions before “all this death and destruction,” while also indicating that Iranian leaders are now more open to negotiation.
Since Tuesday, Trump has been conducting daily meetings with his national security team in the Situation Room to evaluate options.
While some political allies, including Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, have advised against war—citing his longstanding position against foreign entanglements—others, like Senator Lindsey Graham, advocate for decisive military action, labeling Iran as a significant threat to global security.
Leavitt highlighted that the president continues to prioritize diplomacy, stating, “The president hears all voices across the country, and he makes decisions based on his instincts. And he has always said diplomacy is his first option.”
As speculation grows over Washington’s next move, Trump’s familiar “two-week” timeline—used previously concerning decisions on Ukraine and other foreign policy issues—has once again set expectations for resolving one of the most volatile crises of his presidency.
