Trump: Israel will lead strike on Iran if nuclear talks fail

US President Donald Trump has stated that Israel will “lead” a military strike, alongside the US, against Iran if nuclear talks fail.

According to The Times of Israel, when asked whether military action would be considered if Iran does not agree to a nuclear deal, Trump replied: “If it requires military, we’re going to have military.”

In what seems to be the first explicit mention of Israel’s involvement, he added: “Israel will obviously be very much involved in that — it’ll be the leader of that.” This remark raised eyebrows, as it suggested Israel would take the lead in any potential military operation against Iran.

However, Trump appeared to soften his stance moments later. “Nobody leads us. We do what we want to do,” he clarified, signaling that while Israel would play a key role, the US would maintain its autonomy in decision-making.

Trump also reaffirmed that the US would use military force if necessary, stating that he has set a timeline for the process, although he did not specify how long it would take. Reports suggest that the timeline could be two months.

April 12 marks the start of a summit in Oman, which Trump views as the beginning of crucial talks. US envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, will represent the US, while Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, will lead Iran’s delegation. Trump has stated that these talks will be direct, although Iran has insisted on mediation.

“We have a little time, but we don’t have much time because we’re not going to let them have a nuclear weapon,” Trump warned. He also expressed his desire for Iran to prosper, adding: “We’re going to let them thrive. I want them to thrive. I want Iran to be great. The only thing they can’t have is a nuclear weapon. They understand that.”

Trump further remarked on the election outcome, saying: “I was a little bit surprised because when the election was rigged, I figured that they would get the weapon because with me, they were broke,” though he did not elaborate on the statement.