He said Israel “would join in two minutes if I ask them to,” but added that the US “doesn’t need anybody” to launch a new operation against Iran. Trump also warned that Israel’s participation could have “consequences”, hinting at possible Iranian retaliation.
The US president further said Iran wants to negotiate but is “not ready to make a deal” yet because it “hasn’t received enough pain”.
Two US officials told Axios that no decision has been made and no new military orders have been issued.Separately, two regional sources familiar with mediation efforts told the publication that Iran’s leadership has not accepted the latest proposal aimed at easing tensions.
According to the report, the US has stepped up military operations over the past 12 days in response to Iranian attacks on commercial ships in the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran has continued escalating its own actions in the region. Iran-backed Houthi rebels have also intensified attacks on Saudi vessels in the Red Sea, further raising tensions along a key global shipping route.
Trump also warned on Truth Social that if the Houthis launch further attacks on ships in the Red Sea, the US would hold Iran responsible. Calling the Houthis an Iranian proxy, he said “major military punishment” would be inflicted on both Iran and the group.
Separately, Trump said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wants to attend the wake of late Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington next week, adding that he would meet the Israeli leader if he visits.
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