Trump Opposed Israeli Plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader, Sources Say
CNN
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President Donald Trump opposed an Israeli plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to two sources familiar with the situation. This decision comes amid ongoing waves of tit-for-tat strikes between Israel and Iran. The Former President is making it publicly and privately clear he prefers to keep the United States out of the conflict for now.
Over the weekend, a Senior Official told CNN that the Israelis had an opportunity to eliminate Iran’s Supreme Leader.
The U.S. communicated to Israel that Trump opposed that plan, the Senior Official said, and the plan was not executed. Trump is eager to de-escalate the rising tensions between both countries.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed at Fox News Sunday morning stating that, “There are ‘so many false reports of conversations that never happened and I’m not going to get into that,'” when asked about reports of the plan.A spokesperson for Netanyahu told CNN that the reports of Trump rejecting an Israeli plan are “FAKE.”
Even as the conflict escalated, administration officials made clear they were open to continuing nuclear talks with Iran – hoping that, despite impossible odds, they could salvage a peaceful solution.
Sources familiar with the matter say Israel has spoken with the US about possibly increasing its level of involvement, though one Israeli official cautioned those conversations have not yet included “practical” discussions of the finer details.
and while Trump hopes to avoid a prolonged conflict that could further destabilize the middle East, some in the administration recognize that American military assistance may help Israel conclude its objectives more quickly, the sources said.
“We’re not involved in it. It’s possible we could get involved. But we are not at this moment involved,” Trump told ABC News on Sunday morning.
Since israel launched its first attack early Friday morning, the US has offered defensive support to Israel intercepting an onslaught of Iranian reprisal strikes.
But Trump has stopped well short of joining Israel’s military in its attempts to dismantle Iran’s nuclear facilitiesresisting pressure from fellow Republicans to join the fight.
He said in a social media post Saturday that he felt the conflict “should end” as he continues to hold out hope for a negotiated agreement that would curb Tehran’s nuclear ambitions, even after planned talks this weekend in Oman between the US and Iranian negotiating teams were called off.
“the U.S.had nothing to do with the attack on Iran, tonight,” Trump wrote on Truth Social late Saturday amid a fresh round of attacks in the region.
Did you Know? Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been the Supreme Leader of Iran since 1989.
The Israeli operation against Iran is expected to take “weeks, not days” and is moving forward with implicit US approval, according to White House and Israeli officials.
frequently Asked Questions
- Q: Why did Trump oppose the plan to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader?
- A: Trump opposed the plan as he is eager to de-escalate tensions in the Middle East and avoid becoming embroiled in another conflict.
- Q: What was Israel’s plan regarding Iran’s Supreme Leader?
- A: According to reports, Israel had an opportunity to kill Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
- Q: What is the U.S. stance on the conflict between Israel and Iran?
- A: The U.S. has offered defensive support to Israel but has or else tried to limit its direct involvement in the conflict, hoping to de-escalate tensions.
- Q: Are nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran still possible?
- A: despite the escalating conflict, U.S. officials have indicated they are open to continuing nuclear talks with Iran in hopes of achieving a peaceful resolution.
- Q: What is Trump’s overall goal in the Middle East?
- A: trump aims to act as a global peacemaker and bring an end to conflicts in the region, while limiting U.S. involvement in new wars.
- Q: how long is the Israeli operation against iran expected to last?
- A: The Israeli operation against Iran is expected to take “weeks, not days,” according to White House and Israeli officials.
What do you think about the Former President’s approach to the conflict? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below.
How might shifts in domestic US political priorities influence Trump’s stance on increased military aid to Israel, given the current Iran conflict?
Trump’s Stance on increased US Military Aid to Israel Amidst Iran Conflict
The Shifting Sands of US-Israel Relations
The ongoing Iran conflict has significantly reshaped the geopolitical landscape of the Middle East, placing considerable strain on the longstanding alliance between the United States and Israel. Former President Donald Trump, known for his strong support of Israel during his presidency, is now navigating complex decisions related to US military aid amidst rising tensions. This article delves into Trump’s hesitations, the underlying factors, and the potential ramifications for the region.
Factors Influencing Aid Decisions: Political and Strategic Considerations
Several factors might potentially be contributing to Trump’s hesitancy:
- Domestic Political Calculations: Decisions regarding foreign aid frequently enough intersect with domestic political considerations. Public opinion, shifts in voting demographics, and potential political pressures all play a role.
- Economic Constraints: The United States’ own economic challenges can influence its foreign policy decisions. The availability of funds and priorities competing with defense spending naturally influence aid decisions.
- Regional Power Dynamics: The broader Middle East dynamics, including relations with other nations such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE and of course iran, are crucial. Trump may be balancing conflicting interests and strategies.
Trump’s Public Statements and the Reality on the Ground
as previously noted in a 2024 report from ABC News, Trump stated: “it’s possible we could get involved…” – referring to potential US involvement in the Israel-iran conflict. This statement highlights the delicate balance of maintaining strategic partnerships.
Analyzing US Military Aid to Israel
Understanding the details of military aid packages is crucial. The United States has a long history of providing financial and military assistance to Israel. however, changes in the political environment as well as the ongoing security situation can influence the nature and amount of aid provided.
Past Context of US Aid to israel
The US-Israel relationship has been characterized by robust military and economic aid. over the decades, the United States has provided billions of dollars in support, reflecting a strong strategic alliance in the volatile Middle East. Understanding the historical framework is crucial for comprehending the current situation. Current aid packages are usually reviewed and renewed.
| Year | Major Aid Initiatives |
|---|---|
| 1970s-2020s | Major Strategic Partnership and aid package renewals |
Exploring Potential impacts of Aid Decisions
Decisions concerning US military aid directly impact Israel’s capabilities, security, and diplomatic standing. These decisions are never made lightly.
- Military Strength: Changes in aid levels directly influence Israel’s military strength, affecting its capacity to defend itself against threats.
- Regional Stability: Aid decisions can impact the regional balance of power and perhaps increase or decrease instability.
Any shifts in the landscape can potentially influence the intensity of the iran conflict itself.
Scenarios and Forecasts: The Future of US-Israel Relations
Considering various dynamics, several potential future possibilities exist. The Iran conflict will undoubtedly influence future decisions.
Potential Future Scenarios
Several potential scenarios could develop depending on the context:
- Increased Aid Levels: Heightened regional instability as well as escalating threats could incentivize increased defense funding/aid.
- Aid Stagnation or Reductions: Political factors and global developments, including economic pressures or changing strategic priorities, could result in stagnant or reduced aid.
- Conditional Aid: The US could impose conditions on aid based on the region’s political situation.
