U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that it’s uncertain whether Iran’s nuclear program still exists following Israel’s powerful attacks on Iran.
Israel began its attacks on Iran in the early hours of Friday, targeting military facilities, nuclear sites, ballistic missile factories, and military leaders. The attacks killed several military leaders, including Revolutionary Guard chief Hossein Salami, Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mohammad Bagheri, and the Emergency Command commander. Six nuclear scientists were also killed. In attacks on civilian areas, 78 people were killed and 329 injured.
In an interview with Reuters about the attacks, Trump said the U.S. still planned to hold talks with Iran about its nuclear program on June 16. He referred to a scheduled meeting between U.S. Special Envoy Steve Biegun and an Iranian delegation in Oman. However, Trump expressed doubt about whether these talks would proceed as scheduled. He stated that Iran still had an opportunity to reach an agreement with the U.S. regarding its nuclear program.
Trump said he tried to delay Israel’s attack on Iran to allow more time for negotiations. He noted that Israel was given a 6060-day deadline, and the attack came on the 61st day when no agreement was reached. Trump emphasized that negotiations weren’t over, but he was unsure if the June 16 meeting would take place.
Trump revealed he was aware of Israel’s plans to attack Iran. He mentioned discussing Iran with top U.S. security advisors on June 8 and with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the following day. Trump stated that the U.S. knew of Israel’s plans and that he worked to save Iran from misery and death. He expressed a strong desire to reach an agreement with Iran and believed there was still time to achieve this.
Trump added that he wasn’t concerned about the Israeli attacks potentially starting a regional war. When asked if the U.S. would assist against Iranian counterattacks on Israel, Trump affirmed his support for Israel, describing the U.S. and Israel as very close allies with the U.S. being Israel’s biggest supporter.
