On Thursday afternoon, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt conveyed a message purportedly from President Trump regarding the situation with Iran. The statement indicated that due to a "substantial chance of negotiations," the president would decide within two weeks whether to initiate military strikes against Iran.
This announcement followed mounting pressure from the noninterventionist faction of Trump's party, coinciding with his lunch meeting with prominent critic of military action, Stephen K. Bannon. Despite the public stance suggesting deliberation, sources indicate that Trump had already made significant military preparations to attack Iran’s nuclear facilities.
Less than 30 hours after Leavitt's briefing, Trump ordered the military strike, marking the U.S.'s involvement in a renewed conflict within the Middle East. This period of uncertainty followed a series of Israeli military actions against Iran, which Trump praised as brilliant and successful.
Interviews with administration insiders reveal that various factions within Trump's circle were competing for influence over his decision-making process, although many believed he was leaning towards military action. His social media posts further fueled concerns about operational security among military planners who feared they were alerting Iran to impending strikes.
As military preparations advanced, Trump maintained a public narrative that suggested hesitancy, even stating that he could decide at the last moment. However, while publicly projecting potential diplomatic avenues, military plans were being finalized, with B-2 bombers prepared for action.
By June 17, Trump appeared to have firmly resolved to proceed with airstrikes, issuing threatening messages on social media. His administration balanced the pressures of domestic opinion and the military’s operational strategies, attempting to gauge public sentiment regarding military engagement.
On June 19, Trump initiated a complex military operation, deploying B-2 bombers and launching missiles aimed at key Iranian nuclear sites. The targeted facilities included the Fordo site, which was heavily fortified. This operation marked the first use of certain advanced munitions in combat.
Although the Pentagon reported successful strikes that significantly damaged Iran's nuclear capabilities, officials later acknowledged that complete destruction was not achieved. The operation generated substantial public discussion about potential regime change in Iran, a goal that some officials sought to distance from.
Post-operation, Trump hinted at evolving objectives regarding Iran, raising the prospect of regime change while maintaining a focus on the outcome of negotiations surrounding its nuclear program.