NBC: Trump initially hesitated on attacking Iran over uncertain outcomes

U.S. President Donald Trump initially showed no desire to launch a military operation against Iran, as he was uncertain about the potential consequences, NBC News reported, citing an unnamed national security official.

According to the network, Trump believed his advisers had not provided a clear understanding of what Iran’s future might look like after a potential conflict. He also had doubts about whether strikes would produce a lasting outcome.

Before any operation, the president insisted on an agreement that would require Iran to give up its nuclear weapons. American negotiators reportedly offered Tehran, among other things, free nuclear fuel, but Iran refused.

Later, Trump told NBC News that the decision to carry out strikes was made after Iran declined to halt its nuclear program.

By Khagan Isayev