Trump Ambiguous on Iran Strikes Amidst Rising Tensions and Mediation Offers

WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump has maintained an ambiguous stance on potential US military strikes against Iran, stating, "I may do it, I may not do it. Nobody knows what I'm going to do." His comments come amidst ongoing tensions and discussions regarding Iran's nuclear program. Trump emphasized that it is "not too late" for Iran to abandon its nuclear ambitions, while also weighing direct US involvement in Israeli military operations aimed at curbing Tehran's nuclear program. Iran, through its mission to the United Nations, has refuted Trump's claims of officials groveling at the White House gates, calling his threat to "take out" Iran's Supreme Leader a "cowardly threat." Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin offered to mediate in the US-Iran conflict. Trump, however, suggested Putin focus on mediating Russia's own conflict with Ukraine first. Meanwhile, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth informed lawmakers that the Pentagon is exploring options for Trump's next steps on Iran. Despite Trump's assertion that the US knows where Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei is hiding but does not wish him killed "for now," his increasingly firm comments towards Iran follow his urging for Tehran's 9.5 million residents to flee. This has led to skepticism among some of his ardent supporters and allies, including Steve Bannon, Charlie Kirk, and Tucker Carlson, who caution against deeper US involvement in the Mideast, fearing it could be seen as a betrayal.