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Trump Considers Strikes on Tehran as Israel-Iran War Intensifies
As the Israel-Iran conflict stretches into its sixth day, President Donald Trump has issued a direct warning to Tehran, suggesting that the United States is prepared to strike Iran’s capital if provocations continue. Speaking through his Truth Social platform, Trump stated that U.S. intelligence knows “exactly” where Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is located. While he emphasized that the U.S. was not planning to “take him out” immediately, he left the door open to escalatory action if Iran intensifies its offensive against Israel.
Trump’s message underscored that Iran’s actions would determine America’s next steps, asserting that Washington is “very much looking at” a military response depending on how Iran proceeds.
Iran Conflict Enters Sixth Day
Israel’s military campaign, Operation Rising Lion, has entered a new phase with the destruction of key Iranian military and nuclear facilities. Iranian missile sites, air defense systems, and senior command centers have been heavily targeted. In retaliation, Iran has launched missile and drone attacks toward Israeli cities, causing civilian casualties and heightening fears of a wider war.
Iran has maintained that its missile defense systems remain operational, but U.S. and Israeli officials claim to have established air superiority in key sectors. Tensions remain dangerously high, with both nations unwilling to step back.
Trump Reviews Military Options
Inside the White House Situation Room, Trump convened a high-level strategic meeting involving Vice President J.D. Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and senior intelligence officials. Sources indicate that operational plans were reviewed for both supporting Israeli strikes and launching potential U.S. attacks on Iranian strategic assets should the conflict escalate further.
While some within the administration push for caution and diplomatic space, others are advocating for a firmer U.S. military role. Trump’s recent language suggests that he is open to aggressive options if Tehran’s behavior does not change.
Global Concerns Mount
European leaders and United Nations officials have urged restraint, warning that a direct U.S. strike on Tehran could lead to an uncontrollable regional war. Oil markets have responded nervously, and governments across the Middle East are bracing for ripple effects.
Meanwhile, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reiterated his commitment to dismantling Iran’s military capabilities and labeled the Islamic Republic’s leadership as a direct threat to regional and global stability. He has called for continued U.S. support, emphasizing that a united front is essential to contain Iran’s ambitions.
What Lies Ahead
With Iran showing no signs of de-escalation and Israel pressing ahead with its strikes, the potential for a direct U.S. military intervention looms larger. Trump’s comments, carefully worded yet unmistakably forceful, have put Tehran on notice. Whether this brinkmanship will force Iran to recalibrate its strategy—or push the conflict into a larger and more dangerous phase—remains uncertain.
As diplomatic channels work behind the scenes to prevent a wider war, all eyes remain on Washington, Tehran, and Jerusalem—where the next move could determine the future of Middle Eastern stability.
