US President Donald Trump said he is seriously considering launching what he described as the largest military attack ever carried out against Iran, but stressed that no final decision has been made.
In an interview with Axios on Thursday, Trump said the United States was “close to making a decision” on a possible military operation following nearly two weeks of escalating hostilities with Tehran.
“I am considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before. I am close to making a decision. We are all set for it,” Trump said.
He did not indicate when a decision would be made. Two US officials told Axios that no military orders had been issued and no final decision had been reached.
Trump said Israel would immediately join any new offensive if requested.
“Israel would join in two minutes if I ask them to,” he said, while adding that the United States was capable of carrying out the operation on its own if necessary.
The president also acknowledged that Israeli participation could prompt retaliatory action from Iran.
Trump said Tehran was interested in negotiations but had not yet reached the point of accepting a deal.
“They haven’t received enough pain yet,” he said.
According to regional sources familiar with ongoing mediation efforts, Iran has not accepted the latest diplomatic proposal aimed at easing tensions.