Trump: Tough to Urge Israel to Halt Strikes Amid Military Gains

Trump Hesitant to Urge Israel to Halt Strikes on Iran Amid Gains

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he is unlikely to press Israel to stop its airstrikes on Iran, citing the current military dynamics. Speaking in New Jersey, Trump said, “It’s very hard to make that request right now. If somebody is winning, it’s harder to do than if somebody is losing.”

Trump acknowledged ongoing talks with Iran but downplayed the likelihood of a swift resolution. “We’re ready, willing and able... We’ll see what happens,” he said, suggesting a two-week window for diplomatic clarity. He dismissed European mediation efforts, stating, “Iran doesn’t want to speak to Europe. They want to speak to us.”

Referring to Iran’s nuclear buildup, Trump claimed, “They’ve gathered a tremendous amount of material.” He also rejected comparisons to the Iraq War, reaffirming his stance against prior U.S. military interventions.

The escalating conflict has taken a deadly toll: Israeli strikes have reportedly killed 639 people in Iran, including top officials, while Iran’s missile retaliation has left 24 Israeli civilians dead.