Israel, Iran Trade Fire as U.S. Weighs OptionsPresident Trump privately approved of attack plans for Iran but is holding off on giving the final order:

🔥 Israel–Iran Escalation

Iranian strikes: On June 19, 2025, Iran launched large-scale drone and missile barrages—around 400 missiles and 1,000 drones—targeting Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Beersheba, hitting a hospital in Beersheba and injuring hundreds .Israeli response: Israel retaliated with airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, including Arak and Khondab reactors. Israeli officials called Iran’s actions a “war crime” and signaled that Supreme Leader Khamenei “can no longer be allowed to exist” .🇺🇸 U.S. Involvement & Trump’s CalculationsAuthorized but delayed: President Trump has privately approved U.S. attack plans targeting Iranian facilities, including Fordow, but has not issued a final strike order, hoping Iran will step back from pursuing nuclear weapons .Military posture: U.S. forces—including destroyers, a carrier group, and strategic aircraft—are deployed to the region in support of Israel or ready for action .Diplomacy vs. force: Trump continues to weigh military action against diplomatic openings, hinting at negotiations contingent on Iran’s stance .⚠️ Regional Stakes & International ReactionIran warns any U.S. involvement would provoke a “harsh response” .Global pressure: Countries like China and EU members urge de-escalation, while Russia warns the U.S. against expanding the conflict .Non-combatants at risk: Over 240 wounded at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba; international evacuations underway. Civilian airspace closures further complicate safe movements .🔥 Israel–Iran EscalationIranian strikes: On June 19, 2025, Iran launched large-scale drone and missile barrages—around 400 missiles and 1,000 drones—targeting Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Beersheba, hitting a hospital in Beersheba and injuring hundreds .Israeli response: Israel retaliated with airstrikes on key Iranian nuclear and missile facilities, including Arak and Khondab reactors. Israeli officials called Iran’s actions a “war crime” and signaled that Supreme Leader Khamenei “can no longer be allowed to exist” .🇺🇸 U.S. Involvement & Trump’s CalculationsAuthorized but delayed: President Trump has privately approved U.S. attack plans targeting Iranian facilities, including Fordow, but has not issued a final strike order, hoping Iran will step back from pursuing nuclear weapons .Military posture: U.S. forces—including destroyers, a carrier group, and strategic aircraft—are deployed to the region in support of Israel or ready for action .Diplomacy vs. force: Trump continues to weigh military action against diplomatic openings, hinting at negotiations contingent on Iran’s stance .⚠️ Regional Stakes & International ReactionIran warns any U.S. involvement would provoke a “harsh response” .Global pressure: Countries like China and EU members urge de-escalation, while Russia warns the U.S. against expanding the conflict .Non-combatants at risk: Over 240 wounded at Soroka Hospital in Beersheba; international evacuations underway. Civilian airspace closures further complicate safe movements .