Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly given preliminary approval for a military strike on Iran, though the final decision has been postponed by two weeks. The delay follows a direct appeal for restraint from UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, according to White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, who confirmed that a final decision would be made within the fortnight.
Prime Minister Starmer confirmed that he had spoken to President Trump multiple times regarding the escalating crisis. UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also met with Trump’s top diplomatic advisor, Senator Marco Rubio, in Washington to urge de-escalation and explore avenues for renewed diplomatic engagement with Iran.
In response to questions on potential U.S. involvement, President Trump said, “Maybe, maybe not,” reflecting growing speculation about a shift in U.S. policy. Sources suggest that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu may have played a role in influencing Trump’s evolving stance, as he continues to press for stronger Western backing against Iran.
Russia Issues Stern Warning
Meanwhile, Russia has warned the United States against military involvement in the ongoing Israel-Iran conflict. Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova called such action “extremely dangerous”, emphasising that direct U.S. intervention would further destabilise the region.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, following talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping, reiterated the need for a political and diplomatic resolution. Yuri Ushakov, a senior adviser to Putin, stated that Moscow and Beijing believe peace can only be achieved through dialogue, not armed confrontation.
Despite its strategic alliance with Iran—including a recent military cooperation agreement—Russia has not provided direct military assistance to Tehran. However, the Kremlin has voiced strong criticism of Israeli military actions in recent days.
Middle East Conflict Deepens
As diplomatic efforts unfold, violence between Israel and Iran has escalated. On Thursday, an Iranian ballistic missile strike hit Soroka Medical Centre in Beersheba, southern Israel’s largest hospital, injuring dozens. The Israeli military claims the area was being used by Iranian intelligence operatives.
In retaliation, Israeli forces launched a strike on the Khondab nuclear facility near Arak, reportedly damaging the site’s heavy water reactor. Israel has stated that its military response will continue until Iran’s nuclear infrastructure is completely dismantled.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would not be spared if attacks continued. Prime Minister Netanyahu, visiting the bombed Soroka hospital, declared, “Iran will pay a heavy price,” and reaffirmed Israel’s commitment to dismantling Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
The Red Cross has condemned the attack on Soroka hospital as a violation of international humanitarian law.
Iran Warns the U.S.
In response, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Saeed Khatibzadeh warned the United States against joining the conflict. “If America intervenes on behalf of the Zionists, it will be taught a lesson,” he said. Khatibzadeh emphasised that this is “not America’s war”, underscoring Tehran’s stance that any U.S. involvement would escalate the conflict further.
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