Smoke and fumes rise into the sky in the Iranian capital after an Israeli attack on Wednesday.
Tensions between Iran and Israel have reached a critical stage, drawing global attention. As the two nations continue to exchange attacks, former US President Donald Trump is closely monitoring the situation. The possibility of American military involvement is now a key point of global concern.
Trump Reviews Military Strategy but Waits
Former President Donald Trump has been briefed on various military options concerning Iran. However, he is holding back on taking any immediate action. Sources reveal he wants to assess whether Iran will scale back its nuclear ambitions before making a final decision.
Trump admitted he prefers making such decisions at the last possible moment. “I like to make the final decision one second before it’s due,” he told CNN. This approach, he said, allows flexibility in an unpredictable conflict.
Evacuations Begin as US Weighs Involvement
As the situation intensifies, the United States has taken precautionary steps. Some U.S. embassy personnel and their families have been evacuated from Israel aboard a military aircraft. However, the U.S. Embassy in Israel clarified that there are no current plans to evacuate private American citizens.
Ambassador Mike Huckabee noted on social media that they are working on potential evacuation flights and cruise ship options.
Iran Declares Self-Defense
Iran maintains that its recent military actions are purely defensive. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized the nation’s commitment to diplomacy. However, Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht Ravanchi warned that if the U.S. becomes involved, Iran will strike back forcefully.
“If the Americans decide to get involved militarily, we have no choice but to retaliate,” Ravanchi stated.
Israel Strikes Deep into Iranian Territory
Israel claims it has launched a targeted campaign against Iranian military infrastructure. Over 20 sites in Tehran, including missile production facilities and national police headquarters, were hit.
An Israeli military source said these strikes have weakened Iran’s missile-launching capabilities. Local residents in Tehran report sleepless nights due to relentless bombing sounds.
Iran Responds with Missile Attacks
Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps responded by firing Sejjil-2 ballistic missiles towards Israel. These medium-range, solid-fueled weapons reflect Iran’s escalating involvement in the conflict.
To counter further unrest, Iran’s government imposed nationwide internet restrictions, citing national security concerns.
Israel Urges Complete Disarmament of Iran
Yechiel Leiter, Israel’s ambassador to the United States, stressed the importance of neutralizing both Iran’s nuclear and missile programs.
“They cannot have the weapons that can destroy Israel,” Leiter declared. He emphasized that Iran’s missile production facilities must also be dismantled.
Leiter also hinted at possible strikes on Iran’s heavily protected Fordow nuclear enrichment site. While he didn't confirm specifics, he mentioned that Israel may resort to “surprises” if needed.
“All options are on the table,” he said, echoing Trump’s stance.
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter speaks to the media in Washington, D.C. on May 22, 2025 .
Uncertainty Looms as US Deliberates
Despite mounting pressure, no final decision has been made by the U.S. leadership. Trump remains cautious, evaluating every scenario before making a move.
According to White House sources, discussions continue on how to potentially disable Iran’s nuclear capabilities without engaging in a broader war. CNN reports that Trump is increasingly open to using U.S. military power, but remains wary of triggering a full-scale conflict.
As both nations ramp up military activities and rhetoric, the world waits to see whether diplomacy will prevail or if the region will spiral into war.
