Trump is to decide in two weeks whether the US will strike Iran amid escalating Israel-Iran conflict and ongoing missile attacks.
Donald Trump May Strike Iran in Two Weeks, Says White House Amid Israel-Iran War | May 20, 2025
Amid surging tensions in the Middle East, the White House confirmed on Thursday, May 20, 2025, that US President Donald Trump will decide within two weeks whether to authorize a direct military strike on Iran. His decision comes as the conflict between Iran and Israel escalates, resulting in hundreds of casualties and targeting critical infrastructure.
The statement, read aloud by White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, indicated there is a “substantial chance of negotiation” with Iran over its nuclear program. Trump’s measured tone suggests diplomatic efforts are still in play, even as the situation on the ground deteriorates rapidly.
“Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiation that may or may not take place with Iran shortly, I will decide whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Leavitt quoted Trump.
🔴 Trending: Conflict Escalates Between Israel and Iran
Israeli Airstrikes Spark Heavy Clashes
A wave of Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military sites triggered the current escalation. Iran responded with a barrage of over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones, as confirmed by IDF spokesperson Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin.
- At least 639 killed in Iran, including 263 civilians
- 24 dead in Israel, with hundreds more wounded
- Medical facilities, including Soroka Medical Center, were directly hit
- Israel claims to have destroyed two-thirds of Iran’s missile launchers
Hospitals and Nuclear Sites Targeted
One Iranian missile hit a hospital in southern Israel, injuring at least 240 people, including 80 medical staff and patients. Israel responded by striking Iran’s Arak heavy water reactor, a site linked to nuclear weapons production.
Iran denies targeting hospitals and claims its strike was aimed at a military technology unit near the hospital.
💡 White House: Diplomatic Channels Still Possible
Despite the worsening battlefield situation, the Trump administration has not ruled out diplomacy. Trump is reportedly weighing a limited strike on Iran’s Fordo uranium enrichment facility, a fortified underground site requiring bunker-buster bombs to penetrate.
“I may do it. I may not do it. I mean, nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump told reporters. “I prefer to make the final decision one second before it’s due.”
http://United Nations – Secretary-General’s Statements on Iran
📊 Expert Military & Political Analysis
Defense analysts believe the situation could spiral into a full-scale regional war:
- Michael O’Hara, former U.S. military advisor: “A precision strike could delay Iran’s nuclear timeline, but it will almost certainly invite retaliation.”
- The Fordo site, 80 meters underground, is nearly impenetrable without special weaponry
US-Iran-Israel Triangle:
- Israel pushes for Trump’s involvement, saying the US is already “helping a lot”
- Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has warned of “massive retaliation”
- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed limited oversight of Iran’s nuclear activities
🌐 International Reactions: World on Edge
- Russia warned Israel against striking Iran’s Bushehr nuclear power plant.
- UN called for restraint; France and Germany urged diplomacy.
- The UK expressed support for Allied defensive actions.
- A grenade attack was reported at the Norwegian ambassador’s residence in Tel Aviv, causing no injuries.
“This is a dangerous and serious crime,” said Israel’s Foreign Minister Gideon Saar
- Why Iran’s Fordo Facility Matters in 2025’s Nuclear Debate
- Timeline of the Israel-Iran Conflict: What You Need to Know
🤔 FAQs
1. What did Trump say about a strike on Iran?
He said he’ll decide in two weeks, citing a chance for diplomacy.
2. Why is Israel attacking Iran?
Israel launched preemptive strikes to stop Iran’s nuclear development.
3. How has Iran responded?
Iran launched over 450 missiles and 1,000 drones, some hitting civilian areas.
4. Has the US already been involved?
While not officially participating, the US has provided intelligence and logistical support to Israel.
5. What role is Russia playing?
Russia has warned against attacks on Iranian nuclear plants, deepening global tension.
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