Khamenei Targeted: Trump Opposes Israeli Plan
The US is providing defensive assistance to Israel, while also seeking to de-escalate the conflict through diplomatic means. The situation remains volatile, with both sides exchanging blows and the potential for further escalation remaining high. The US will likely continue to play a key role in shaping the outcome of the conflict.
President Donald Trump has expressed opposition to an Israeli plan to kill Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to two sources, as the US seeks to de-escalate the conflict and avoid another Middle East war. The Trump administration has communicated its disapproval of the plan to Israel, and it was not executed.
The Israeli operation against Iran is expected to take "weeks, not days" and is moving forward with implicit US approval. Despite this, the US role in the conflict has been largely defensive, with Trump warning Iran that any attack on the US would be met with the full strength of the US Armed Forces. American military planners have prepared options for joint US-Israeli actions against Iranian facilities, but there is no indication that Trump has approved such options.
The conflict has already resulted in significant damage and casualties, with Iran firing over 280 ballistic missiles at Israel since the operation began. Dozens of missiles have breached air defenses, striking residential areas and causing casualties. The US is assisting with defense, providing THAAD systems and a US Navy destroyer to help shoot down incoming ballistic missiles.
As the situation continues to unfold, the Trump administration remains open to continuing nuclear talks with Iran, hoping to salvage a peaceful solution. The US is walking a fine line between supporting its ally Israel and avoiding further escalation of the conflict, which has already resulted in significant loss of life and damage.