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Trump Weighs Iran Strike After Missile Hits Israeli Hospital

President Donald Trump is nearing a critical decision on whether to launch military strikes on Iran following an Iranian missile attack that hit a hospital in southern Israel. The White House says the president has authorized plans for potential strikes but has not yet ordered them.

During a press briefing, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations… I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks.” The quote, attributed directly to the president, reflects a strategic pause as officials weigh both diplomatic and military options.

Analysts warn that a U.S. strike could escalate the conflict significantly. One major concern is the potential closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital channel for global oil and gas shipments, which could disrupt the global energy supply.

While Trump insists Iran “cannot have a nuclear weapon,” questions remain about how close Tehran is to building one. Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu say Iran is only weeks away. However, the U.S. intelligence community, led by Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, disputes that assessment.

Gabbard, whose views on Iran have long stirred controversy, has reportedly been sidelined from high-level discussions within the White House, creating internal divisions over the administration’s direction.

The president, who campaigned on avoiding foreign entanglements, is facing tension from within his own MAGA base, some of whom are wary of new military action.

Meanwhile, U.S. senators are set to receive their first classified briefing on the situation next week.

Credit: NBC News
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By: NBC Palm Springs

June 19, 2025

Trump Iran decisionIsraeli hospital strikeIran nuclear programStrait of HormuzTulsi Gabbard sidelinedUS military responseTrump Netanyahu IranWhite House Iran negotiations
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Trump Weighs Iran Strike After Missile Hits Israeli Hospital