Trump Held Back Israeli Strike on Iran in Favor of Diplomacy

Plans for a joint Israeli-American military strike on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure were reportedly shelved by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who opted instead to pursue diplomatic talks. The New York Times revealed on Wednesday that Israel had proposed a major operation as early as May, but the decision was halted following months of internal U.S. debate.

Israel’s proposal, built on recent military successes, was bold. Having neutralized much of Iran’s air defense network and inflicted significant damage on Hezbollah, Jerusalem viewed the moment as ripe for a decisive blow against Iran’s nuclear facilities. The fall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad Tehran’s key regional conduit further tilted the balance.

Israeli plans included a mix of commando raids and precision bombing, designed to set Iran’s nuclear program back by at least a year. But to execute this operation, Israeli officials sought U.S. cooperation both in launching strikes and managing likely Iranian retaliation.

U.S. generals, including CENTCOM commander Gen. Michael Kurilla, reportedly explored logistical support scenarios, and American forces had already helped intercept Iranian missile attacks on Israel earlier this year. However, while military options were considered, the Trump administration ultimately chose to open the door to diplomacy.

During an Oval Office meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on April 7, Trump made his position clear. He would test the possibility of negotiation albeit with firm conditions. “We have a little time, but we don’t have much time,” he said, making it clear that military action remains on the table should diplomacy fail.

Netanyahu, though cautious, acknowledged the dual-track approach. “There is a first possibility that an agreement is reached in which Iran agrees to dismantle all nuclear facilities under American supervision,” he said. “But if they drag out the talks we discussed this at length then comes the military option.”

Trump’s position remains consistent with prior warnings. In March, he accused Iran of orchestrating Houthi attacks and warned of severe consequences. Meanwhile, the U.S. has bolstered its presence in the region, deploying aircraft carriers and stealth bombers capable of delivering bunker-busting payloads sending a clear signal that America’s patience has limits.

With Iran’s nuclear ambitions advancing and its regional posture weakened, the question now is not if action will come but when, and in what form.

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