Donald Trump weighs options on Iran including US strike after urgent White House meeting: Reports

US President Donald Trump held a high-level national security meeting on June 17 to assess US options amid rising tensions between Israel and Iran, including a possible military strike on Iran. While no decision has been made, Trump emphasised US aerial dominance and warned Iran’s leadership

Written By Ravi Hari
Published18 Jun 2025, 03:00 AM IST
US President Donald Trump speaks to reporters about the G7 Summit aboard Air Force One while travelling back to Washington from Canada on June 16, 2025. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP)
US President Donald Trump speaks to reporters about the G7 Summit aboard Air Force One while travelling back to Washington from Canada on June 16, 2025. (Photo by Brendan Smialowski / AFP)(AFP)

Multiple reports citing current and former administration officials say US President Donald Trump is weighing several options on Iran — including the possibility of a US military strike — following a high-level national security meeting in the White House Situation Room.

While no decision has been made, the officials said Trump remains focused on preventing Iran from advancing its nuclear capabilities.

Key officials present

Among those present at the meeting were Special Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine, and other top military officials.

Military posture

Meanwhile, the Pentagon is quietly shifting more assets to the region. NBC News reported that while the US military presence is being increased largely for defensive purposes, the new deployments carry “significant offensive capabilities.”

Trump returns from G7 early, cites Iran crisis

The urgency of the Situation Room meeting was underscored by Trump’s abrupt departure from the G7 summit in Canada. After signing a joint statement calling for “peace and stability” in the Middle East, Trump left early and ordered his national security team to be ready for immediate discussions upon his arrival back in Washington.

Trump also used the G7 platform to slam Iran for failing to sign a nuclear deal with the United States. Earlier at the summit, he had called for the evacuation of Tehran.

No talks with Iran

Trump confirmed on Tuesday that he has not reached out to Iranian leaders about a possible ceasefire. “I haven't reached out,” he said. “I’m not too much in the mood” to negotiate.

Boasts of aerial dominance

In a pair of posts on Truth Social, Trump claimed overwhelming US control over Iranian airspace.

“We now have complete and total control of the skies over Iran,” Trump wrote.

“Iran had good sky trackers and other defensive equipment, and plenty of it, but it doesn’t compare to American made, conceived, and manufactured ‘stuff.’ Nobody does it better than the good ol’ USA.”

A warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader

Trump added a message, directly referencing Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

“He is an easy target, but is safe there — We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now,” Trump wrote.

“But we don’t want missiles shot at civilians, or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin.”

Unclear if US will intervene

Despite these remarks, the administration has not officially confirmed any change in US involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict. Trump has previously said the United States would not intervene, though his recent tone suggests that position may be shifting.

Also Read | MAGA Rrft over Iran: JD Vance backs Donald Trump, MTG & Tucker oppose

Stay updated with the latest Trending, India , World and United States news. Follow all the latest updates on Israel Iran Conflict here on Livemint.

Business NewsNewsUs NewsDonald Trump weighs options on Iran including US strike after urgent White House meeting: Reports
MoreLess