Amid the intensifying Israel-Iran conflict, US President Donald Trump has shocked global leaders by announcing he will decide on a potential military strike against Iran within two weeks. The delay comes despite weeks of strong rhetoric, including social media warnings urging Tehran’s evacuation and suggestions that the US might imminently enter the war in support of Israel. Trump returned early from the G7 summit on June 17, raising speculation that a military action was imminent. A high-level 80-minute meeting with US security advisers and sightings of the E-4B Nightwatch plane further fueled rumors of impending war. However, on June 19, the White House clarified that negotiations with Iran remain a possibility and no immediate action would be taken. Experts suggest Trump’s hesitation may be due to lack of clear provocation, limited Senate support, and fears of triggering a larger conflict involving Iran’s allies—Russia, China, and North Korea. China is suspected of covertly aiding Iran, and North Korea has openly criticized Israel. G7 nations are advocating for de-escalation through diplomacy. Meanwhile, reports indicate the US may seek access to Pakistani airbases through backchannel diplomacy, as Trump hosted a lunch with Pakistani official Asim Munir. Iran warned Pakistan and others not to support Israel, stating that third-party involvement will ignite the entire region. This delay has left Israel uncertain and escalated tensions in the Middle East, with fears of a broader regional or even global conflict looming if the US proceeds militarily.
