VIDEO: Trump to decide on Iran strike within two weeks: White House

White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said Thursday that US President Donald Trump will decide within two weeks whether to launch a military strike against Iran, as tensions between Tehran and Tel Aviv continue to escalate.

Leavitt emphasized that while military options remain on the table, diplomacy is still a possibility. “There is a significant chance that negotiations with Iran may take place soon — though they may or may not happen,” she said. “President Trump is committed to a diplomatic resolution but will not hesitate to use force if necessary.”

She noted that Trump has made extensive efforts to find a peaceful solution, stating, “The president has given diplomacy every chance and has worked hard to reach a solution with Iran.”

Reiterating the administration’s stance, Leavitt added: “President Trump is a leader of peace through strength, and he is not afraid to use that strength.” She also warned that Iran is now “closer than ever to acquiring a nuclear weapon,” something the US and the world “cannot allow.”

Commenting on ongoing diplomatic efforts, Leavitt said that Iran has shown interest in coming to the White House and that the proposal put forward by special envoy Steve Witkoff was both realistic and acceptable.

She underlined that “Trump remains committed to diplomacy” but that “no one should be surprised by his position on Iran.” According to the White House, “Iran has everything it needs to build a nuclear weapon, which would pose a threat to the US and the entire world.”

Asked about potential international involvement, Leavitt said there are currently “no signs that China will intervene militarily in support of Iran.”

Separately, a senior US official told Al Jazeera that any decision regarding Iran will also weigh the risks to American forces and civilians in the Middle East.

Leavitt concluded by stating that the Trump administration is “ready and prepared to defend American interests anywhere.”