Tensions Rise as Trump Threatens Military Action Against Iran

In late December 2025, President Donald Trump announced that the United States would support new Israeli military strikes against Iran's missile program and threatened immediate military action if Iran attempted to rebuild its nuclear capabilities. During a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at Mar-a-Lago, Trump indicated that if Iran continued its missile development, the U.S. would back Israeli strikes. He warned that any efforts by Iran to enhance its nuclear program would prompt a swift U.S. response, stating, “If true, the United States will have no choice but [to] very quickly eradicate that buildup.”

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Following a series of Israeli airstrikes in June 2025, Iran announced plans to expand its missile program, incorporating advanced technologies to evade missile defenses. Although Iran has allowed International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inspectors to access some sites, it has restricted access to bombed facilities, citing safety concerns. Behrouz Kamalvandi, a spokesman for Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, argued that immediate access to damaged sites could compromise national security. Despite these tensions, Iranian officials maintain their commitment to the nuclear Nonproliferation Treaty (NPT).

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Reports indicate that Israel believes Trump may still consider military action against Iran, contingent on the outcomes of ongoing diplomatic efforts. However, the U.S. administration has recently opted for de-escalation, influenced by concerns from Arab Gulf allies and Israel regarding the potential repercussions of military strikes. U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz emphasized that “all options remain on the table,” but the White House has delayed any military decisions while consulting with regional partners.

The Arab Weekly

Arab Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, have expressed strong reservations about U.S. military action against Iran, fearing that such strikes could provoke Iranian retaliation against U.S. facilities in the region. A senior Saudi official noted that these countries led a diplomatic push to dissuade Trump from military action, warning that an attack could lead to severe consequences for regional stability and economic interests. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Iran's stance, asserting that the country would defend itself against any foreign threats.

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While the U.S. administration has signaled a temporary hold on military action, analysts suggest that any potential strikes could inadvertently bolster domestic support for the Iranian regime. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions among U.S. and regional leaders about the best approach to address Iran's nuclear ambitions and missile capabilities.

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• “ If true, the United States will have “no choice but [to] very quickly eradicate that buildup,” he said.” — Donald Trump, President of the United States

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• “We told Washington that an attack on Iran would open the way for a series of grave blowbacks in the region,” — Senior Saudi Official

The Arab Weekly

• “We’re against a military operation against Iran. We believe the authentic problems of Iran should be resolved by themselves,” — Hakan Fidan, Turkish Foreign Minister

The Arab Weekly

This situation underscores the complex interplay of military threats, diplomatic negotiations, and regional security concerns surrounding Iran's nuclear program and missile development.

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