In remarks from the White House, US President Donald Trump said recent American strikes on Iran may have even hastened Israel’s military response, dismissing suggestions that Washington acted only after Israel was preparing to attack.
Speaking to journalists, Trump argued that Tehran was preparing aggressive action and insisted the United States moved first because it believed an Iranian strike was imminent. According to the president, American and Israeli forces were both ready for confrontation and acted decisively.
Trump went on to say that the US assault significantly weakened Iran’s military capacity, claiming that key capabilities had been heavily damaged and that Tehran’s missile stockpile was rapidly shrinking.
Different Signal From US Diplomacy
The president’s comments appeared to contrast with earlier remarks by Marco Rubio, the US Secretary of State, who had suggested Washington authorised the strikes partly because Israel was preparing to carry out its own operation against Iran.
Rubio’s explanation implied that American involvement may have been influenced by Israel’s readiness to act independently. Trump’s statement, however, framed the attack as a deliberate pre-emptive decision taken by the United States rather than a move driven by Israeli plans.
Military Operations Could Continue
Trump also indicated that the campaign against Iran may not yet be complete. He said US operations would continue until Iran’s military capabilities were fully neutralised, though he did not provide details about possible next steps.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials warned that any further strikes on their strategic sites could trigger retaliation against major economic hubs across the region. The warning came from senior figures linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Comments On Allies And Trade
During the briefing, Trump also addressed relations with several US partners. He praised Germany for its stance on Iran but voiced dissatisfaction with the United Kingdom.
He also criticised Spain and suggested the US might suspend trade ties with Madrid, saying he had asked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent to halt economic dealings after Iran’s response to the strikes. The president did not provide details about the reasons behind the move.
Oil Prices And Diplomatic Concerns
Addressing fears about rising global oil prices due to the escalating conflict, Trump said any increase would likely be temporary. According to him, energy markets would stabilise once tensions ease and Iranian retaliation subsides.
He also noted that there had been no immediate evacuation plans for US diplomatic missions in the region, saying the developments unfolded too quickly for such measures to be prepared.
In a remark that could draw attention in Tehran, Trump hinted that Iran’s future leadership might emerge from within the country itself, though he did not elaborate.
As military operations continue and warnings of retaliation intensify, the statements highlight how the confrontation involving the US, Israel and Iran is expanding beyond the battlefield and affecting global politics, diplomacy and energy markets.