U.S. Weighs Response to Israel-Iran Conflict Amid Rising Nuclear Tensions
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On June 19, 2025, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed speculation about U.S. involvement in the escalating Israel-Iran conflict during a press briefing. She relayed President Donald Trump’s statement that he would decide within two weeks whether to engage directly, depending on potential negotiations with Iran. Leavitt emphasized the urgency of the situation, warning that Iran possesses all necessary components to build a nuclear weapon within weeks if its supreme leader authorizes it. She described such a weapon as an existential threat to Israel, the U.S., and the global community.
The briefing followed heightened tensions after Iran launched missile strikes on Israel, hitting Soroka Medical Center in southern Israel, injuring 80 people, and damaging infrastructure. Over 240 injuries were reported nationwide, with residential areas near Tel Aviv also targeted. In response, Israeli airstrikes struck deep into Iran, targeting nuclear sites like Natanz, centrifuge facilities near Tehran, Isfahan’s nuclear complex, and the Arak heavy water reactor to prevent its use for weapons development. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz directly threatened Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, holding him responsible for the attacks, though Trump reportedly rejected an Israeli proposal to assassinate him.
A Washington-based Iranian human rights group reported 639 deaths in Iran, including 263 civilians, and over 1,300 injuries since Israel’s campaign began last week. Amid the violence, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi planned emergency talks in Geneva with European diplomats, hinting at a possible diplomatic path to ease tensions. Trump, however, suggested his ambitions extend beyond a simple ceasefire, aiming for a broader resolution without ruling out military options. Iran’s leadership warned the U.S. against intervention, claiming it would cause “irreparable damage,” while insisting its nuclear program, with uranium enriched to 60% purity, is peaceful.