Trump Considers US Strike on Iran as Israel-Iran War Intensifies and Khamenei Vows No Surrender

As the Iran-Israel war enters its sixth day, former US President Donald Trump said he has not decided whether the United States will join Israeli airstrikes on Iran, stating, “I may do it, I may not do it.” This comes as Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei declared that the country “will not surrender” to foreign pressure.

Trump Leaves US Action Open-Ended

During a media interaction at the White House, Trump revealed that Iran had proposed talks, possibly sending representatives to Washington. However, he responded it might be “too late” and reiterated his demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender.

“We now have total control of Iran’s skies,” Trump claimed on Truth Social, sparking speculation about US involvement. Yet, he clarified the US has not yet taken direct military action.

Meanwhile, Iran’s UN mission denied seeking negotiations, stating no official had approached the US government.

Khamenei Rejects Surrender, Warns of Consequences

In a televised speech, Ayatollah Khamenei said Iran would stand firm “against imposed war or peace,” warning that any US military involvement would lead to severe consequences. He emphasized that Iran will not bow to threats, and any attack would be met with a strong response.

Conflict Escalates: Iran and Israel Exchange Attacks

• Iran has launched over 400 missiles and dozens of drones toward Israel since the conflict began.

• Israel has responded with airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and military facilities, including:

  • Tehran Research Centre

  • Tesa Karaj centrifuge facility

  • Khojir ballistic missile complex

Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed to have used hypersonic Fattah-1 missiles, making interception difficult. They also launched “Operation Honest Promise 3” in response to Israeli aggression.

US Deployments and Military Strategy

Though Trump has avoided committing troops, he has:

• Deployed the USS Nimitz and additional fighter jets, including F-16, F-22, and F-35s, to the region.

• Ordered B-52H “bunker-buster” bombers to Diego Garcia, capable of targeting deep underground facilities like Iran’s Fordow nuclear site.

According to US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the military is “ready to execute” any decision from the president.

Civilian Toll and International Response

• Iran death toll: 585 killed, 1,326 injured (per Human Rights Activists group)

• Israel casualties: 24 killed, 800 injured

• 19,000 damage claims filed in Israel due to Iranian strikes

Several countries, including China, Japan, Greece, and the UK, have begun evacuating citizens from Iran and Israel. Flights from Cyprus are also bringing stranded Israelis home as Israel’s airspace remains closed.

France Pushes for Peace

French President Emmanuel Macron has proposed a European diplomatic initiative to end the Iran-Israel conflict. He urged Israel to limit strikes on civilian targets and avoid escalating the situation further.

US Political Reactions

US lawmakers, including Thomas Massie and Ro Khanna, introduced a War Powers Resolution to block US military involvement in the conflict. According to a YouGov poll, 60% of Americans oppose US involvement in the war.

Conclusion: Rising Risks and Global Impact

As the Middle East conflict intensifies, fears of regional instability, nuclear escalation, and oil supply disruptions grow. While Trump continues to issue mixed signals, both military pressure and diplomatic options remain on the table. The coming days will be critical in determining whether the US takes a more active role or continues to engage from the sidelines.