In a dramatic escalation, Israel has informed U.S. officials of its readiness to launch a significant military operation against Iran’s nuclear facilities, according to reports from CBS and NBC News on June 12, 2025. This development comes amid ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, raising critical questions about President Donald Trump’s next move as tensions soar in the Middle East.

Israel’s Bold Stance

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reportedly directed the Israel Defense Forces to prepare for a potential strike, with plans ranging from targeted airstrikes to a week-long campaign. Sources indicate Israel is considering acting within days, even without U.S. approval, to delay Iran’s nuclear program by months or more. This follows months of disagreement, with Israel pushing for military action while Trump prioritizes diplomacy to curb Iran’s uranium enrichment.

Trump’s Diplomatic Push

President Trump has consistently advocated for a nuclear deal with Iran, emphasizing diplomacy over military escalation. On June 10, 2025, Trump reiterated his preference for a “reasonable proposal” to Tehran, expressing hope for a peaceful resolution. However, with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council threatening retaliatory strikes on Israeli nuclear sites and rejecting key U.S. demands, such as halting uranium enrichment, negotiations are at a critical juncture. Trump has warned that failure to reach an agreement could lead to severe consequences, stating, “If there’s a second option, it would be very bad for Iran.”

Rising Tensions and Regional Risks

Iran’s Defense Minister Aziz Nasirzadeh has vowed to target U.S. military bases in the region if conflict erupts, while the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps warned of a decisive response to any Israeli aggression. The risk of a broader regional conflict looms large, with potential radioactive fallout and disruption of U.S.-Iran talks threatening stability. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud has expressed hope that Trump’s approach will avoid war, but Israel’s preparations signal a potential clash that could strain U.S.-Israel relations.

What Will Trump Do Next?

Trump faces a delicate balancing act. He has publicly distanced the U.S. from Israeli strike plans, with reports indicating he ordered the Pentagon to halt coordination with Israel on joint attacks. Yet, posts on X suggest Trump may give a “green light” for Israeli action if Iran rejects his latest offer. With U.S. personnel reportedly being repositioned in the Middle East, Trump’s response could hinge on the outcome of nuclear talks set to resume in Oman. Will he continue to push for diplomacy, or shift to supporting Israel’s military option if negotiations collapse?

Implications for the U.S. and Middle East

A unilateral Israeli strike could undermine Trump’s diplomatic efforts and spark a wider conflict involving Iran’s proxies, such as Hezbollah and the Houthis. The U.S., wary of being drawn into another Middle East war, is under pressure to maintain its alliance with Israel while preventing escalation. As the world watches, Trump’s decision will shape the region’s future and U.S. foreign policy in 2025.

Stay tuned for updates on this developing story as the U.S., Israel, and Iran navigate this high-stakes crisis.

Keywords: Israel Iran conflict, Trump Iran policy 2025, Israel nuclear strike, U.S.-Iran nuclear talks, Netanyahu Trump tensions, Middle East crisis, Iran nuclear program, Trump diplomacy, Israel military operation, U.S.-Israel relations