Israel-Iran war looms as Trump set to make major decision within next 2 weeks

US President Donald Trump has announced that he will decide whether to join Israel’s strikes on Iran within the next two weeks, citing a “substantial” chance of talks to end the conflict.

Trump’s statement comes amid heightened tensions between the US and Iran, with the White House Press Secretary, Karoline Leavitt, reading out a message from the president.

“Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks,” Trump said.

This decision could potentially open up space for diplomacy, after days of speculation about US military action against Tehran.

Leavitt emphasized that Trump is committed to diplomacy but not afraid to use strength.

“If there’s a chance for diplomacy, the president’s always going to grab it, but he’s not afraid to use strength as well,” she said.

However, Leavitt also highlighted the urgency of the situation, stating that Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in a “couple of weeks” if its supreme leader decides to do so.

“Iran has all that it needs to achieve a nuclear weapon. All they need is a decision from the supreme leader to do that, and it would take a couple of weeks to complete the production of that weapon,” Leavitt warned.

Iran has consistently denied seeking a nuclear weapon, stating that its program is for peaceful purposes. Trump’s decision will be closely watched, as it may determine the course of the conflict and the potential for diplomatic resolution.