Trump Opts for Diplomatic Solutions Over Military Strikes Against Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump has reportedly thwarted Israel’s plans to launch a military strike against Iran’s nuclear facilities. The Israelis had anticipated significant U.S. involvement, including the use of American aircraft and protection against potential Iranian retaliation. The operation aimed to incapacitate Iran’s nuclear program for up to a year by targeting critical sites such as Natanz and Fordow.

However, after extensive consultations with his advisers, Trump chose to pursue diplomatic negotiations with Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions instead. He communicated this decision to Netanyahu during a meeting in Washington in April.

Consequently, Israel has shifted its strategy away from a large-scale military operation to covert sabotage and targeted eliminations of Iranian scientists linked to the nuclear program.

Trump’s decision marks a notable departure from the United States’ traditional support for Israel in its ongoing confrontation with Iran. According to sources, Israeli officials were confident that Washington would provide military and intelligence support, based on a history of joint operations against Tehran. Nonetheless, Trump, aiming to prevent an escalation that could spiral into a broader regional conflict, opted for a diplomatic route. Analysts suggest that this pragmatic approach reflects Trump’s desire to minimize the costs of foreign engagements while enhancing his image as a peacemaker.

This decision comes amid heightened tensions among Iran, Israel, and the United States. In March 2025, Iran launched over 180 ballistic missiles at Israel in retaliation for the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah, exacerbating Israeli fears regarding Tehran’s nuclear intentions. Israel perceived the missile attack as a preemptive measure, suspecting Iran was nearing the capability to produce a nuclear weapon. However, U.S. intelligence assessments indicate that Tehran has not yet crossed a critical threshold, and its nuclear program remains under international scrutiny following the partial resumption of nuclear deal negotiations in Vienna earlier in February 2025.