Trump Warns of Likely Israeli Strike on Iran Amid U.S. Evacuations

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed his belief that Israel is "very likely" to launch a military strike against Iran, while also opposing any attacks during ongoing negotiations. This statement comes as the U.S. has begun evacuating personnel from certain regions in the Middle East, raising concerns about an imminent conflict.

Trump, speaking at a White House event, stated that while he does not want to say that an attack is imminent, the likelihood of it happening is high. He has also expressed diminishing confidence in the possibility of a nuclear agreement with Iran, stating that he hopes to resolve differences through diplomacy but will not allow Iran to acquire nuclear weapons. Trump has threatened the use of force if a diplomatic solution cannot be reached.

According to informed sources, a U.S. envoy is expected to travel to Muscat for the sixth round of nuclear talks with Iran. However, Trump has indicated that Iran is attempting to negotiate aggressively and is unwilling to completely abandon its nuclear enrichment activities. He emphasized the importance of reaching a good agreement, stating that he does not want military action to disrupt the process.

Iran has warned that it will retaliate against any attack on its nuclear facilities by targeting U.S. assets in the region. In response, the U.S. has ordered the evacuation of some personnel from Baghdad and restricted travel for government employees and their families in Israel to major cities only. Trump explained that the U.S. has many citizens in the region and wants to ensure their safety in case of an imminent threat.

Israel has asserted its right to attack Iran regardless of U.S. support. Reports suggest that the Trump administration's advice to evacuate some U.S. citizens was partly due to intelligence indicating that Israel is prepared to take military action against Iran. This development underscores the complex dynamics at play, with both the U.S. and Israel navigating the delicate balance between diplomacy and military preparedness.