US PRESIDENT TRUMP VETOES ISRAELI PLAN TO ASSASSINATE IRANIAN SUPREME LEADER
In a significant development amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, US President Donald Trump has vetoed an Israeli plan to assassinate Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, according to a senior US official. The official, speaking on condition of anonymity, revealed that the Israelis had informed Washington of their plan, but Trump rejected it, instructing them not to proceed.
Background of the Conflict
The latest conflict between Israel and Iran marks the first time the countries have traded fire with such intensity, sparking fears of a prolonged conflict that could engulf the entire Middle East. The crisis began when Israel launched a massive attack on Iranian military bases, nuclear sites, and residential areas, killing top military commanders and nuclear scientists. Iran retaliated with missile attacks, some of which hit civilian buildings in Tel Aviv.
Trump’s Stance on the Conflict
While Trump has insisted that the US “had nothing to do” with Israel’s bombing campaign, he has also warned that the US could get involved if necessary. In an interview with ABC News, Trump stressed that the US is “not at this moment” involved in the military action but said it was “possible we could get involved.” He also threatened to unleash “the full strength and might” of the US military if Iran attacks US interests, urging both sides to “make a deal.”
Israeli Prime Minister’s Response
When questioned about reports of Trump’s veto, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu dodged the question, stating, “I’m not going to get into that.” However, he emphasized that Israel will “do what we need to do,” and the US “knows what is good for the United States.” Netanyahu also vowed to make Iran pay a “heavy price” for killing Israeli civilians and suggested that Israel had killed Iran’s intelligence chief Mohammad Kazemi.
Potential Diplomatic Efforts
Trump has expressed openness to involving Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin as a mediator to resolve the conflict. As the situation continues to unfold, world leaders are calling for calm, and there are concerns about the potential for further escalation ¹ ².