Trump: Israeli strike on Iran ‘could very well happen’

Former U.S. President Donald Trump said Wednesday that a potential Israeli military strike on Iran is “something that could very well happen,” amid escalating tensions over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.

Speaking to reporters in Washington, Trump avoided calling such an attack imminent, but noted growing concerns in the region. “I don’t want to say imminent, but it looks like it’s something that could very well happen,” he said.

The statement came as Israel continues to warn of possible unilateral action against Iran’s nuclear facilities, especially following reports that Tehran has enriched uranium close to weapons-grade levels.

Trump reiterated his opposition to Iran obtaining nuclear weapons, saying he had consistently warned both allies and adversaries during his presidency. “We made it very clear: Iran can never have a nuclear weapon. I told Israel to be patient. But Iran is not behaving,” he said.

The remarks followed reports that the U.S. has begun repositioning diplomatic personnel in the Middle East amid fears of a regional escalation.

Officials in Jerusalem declined to comment directly on Trump’s remarks, though Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated earlier this week that “Israel reserves the right to defend itself, by itself.”

Diplomatic sources say back-channel communications between Washington, Jerusalem, and Gulf allies are ongoing in an effort to contain the crisis. Iran, for its part, has denied any intent to build nuclear weapons, insisting its nuclear program is for civilian purposes.