by Sharon Rondeau
(Jun. 19, 2025) — In the first White House press briefing since military action commenced between Israel and Iran on Friday, in her opening remarks Thursday afternoon Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters she was aware of a high degree of interest in rumors that President Trump may order the U.S. military to join Israel in its attacks on Iran to stamp out its ability to fully develop a nuclear weapon.
According to media reports and the White House, Iran could be within several weeks of perfecting its nuclear capabilities.
“I have a message directly from the president,” Leavitt said at approximately 1:33 p.m. EDT. Based on the existence of a “substantial chance of negotiations” with the rogue nation, Leavitt said, the president will make a decision on U.S. military involvement “within the next two weeks.”
In recent days on TruthSocial, Trump has deplored Iran for failing to make a “deal” within a 60-day time frame, just expired when Israel began its attacks on Iranian assets, to abandon its nuclear ambitions.
“Iran can not have a nuclear weapon,” he wrote. “I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”
In response to a reporter’s question, Leavitt emphasized Trump would prefer a diplomatic solution to the problem but is “not afraid” to use the “strength” with which he leads the country.
To a journalist who asked about Trump supporters’ opposition to the specter of U.S. military involvement, which is contrary to Trump’s “peace” promise during his 2024 campaign, Leavitt said, “Trust in President Trump. He has incredibly good instincts…”
Update: A video of the press conference begins at 33:56 here.