“I have a message directly from the president,” Leavitt told reporters during a White House press briefing. “Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks.”
Leavitt emphasized that Trump’s position on Iran has been consistent and resolute. She reminded the press that Trump previously issued a 60-day warning to Iran, urging them to come to the negotiating table. When they failed to do so, Israel launched a strike on Day 61—a move widely seen as coordinated with or at least supported by Washington.
A Tense Diplomatic Standoff
Despite earlier speculation that the Trump administration might allow Iran to continue limited uranium enrichment under certain conditions, Leavitt reiterated the president’s zero-tolerance stance on nuclear weapons in Iran.
“Iran cannot be allowed to obtain a nuclear bomb,” Leavitt said. “Not only would it be a threat to Israel, it would pose a direct danger to the United States and the entire world.”
She also revealed that there have been six rounds of direct and indirect negotiations with Iran, but declined to share further details, citing the sensitivity of the talks.
A Race Against Time
According to Leavitt, Iran is just weeks away from being capable of producing a nuclear weapon.
“Iran has everything it needs,” she said. “All that’s left is a decision from the Supreme Leader. Once that order is given, they could finalize production of a nuclear weapon in a matter of weeks.”
When asked whether President Trump would authorize a military strike if negotiations collapse, Leavitt repeated that the president would make a final call “within the next two weeks.”
Pressed on whether this deadline would be firm—given past delays on foreign policy decisions—Leavitt drew a sharp distinction:
“President Trump inherited a world in chaos. He is always open to diplomacy, but he is not afraid to act with strength. This situation is different.”
Trump Keeps Cards Close
Speaking to reporters outside the White House on Wednesday, Trump remained coy about whether he had made a final decision.
“I may do it. I may not do it. Nobody knows what I’m going to do,” Trump said. He also warned Iran to “make a deal now—or face even more brutal military action.”
His comments came just days after Israel launched precision strikes on Iran, targeting nuclear facilities and eliminating top Iranian military commanders. In retaliation, Iran has launched a series of missile attacks, including a direct hit on Soroka Hospital in Beersheba on Thursday morning, which injured over 70 people, according to Israeli officials.
Israel Accuses Iran of War Crimes
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar condemned the missile strike as a war crime, while Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed swift and forceful retaliation.
“Iran will pay a heavy price,” Netanyahu declared. “This was not just an attack on Israel. It was an attack on humanity.”
As global oil prices surge and world leaders urge restraint, the international community is now looking to Washington. Trump’s next move—whether diplomatic or military—could reshape the future of the Middle East and define the final chapter of his presidency.