Trump says Israel would be involved in any US military action against Iran

U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the United States could reach a deal with Iran, but if a military option becomes necessary, “Israel would clearly be involved.”

Trump made the remarks during a press conference following a signing ceremony for executive orders at the Oval Office, responding to questions from reporters on ongoing tensions with Tehran.

The president confirmed that the United States plans to hold direct negotiations with Iran on Saturday, saying that a positive outcome from the talks would be “better for everyone.” While expressing hope for diplomacy, Trump reiterated that the U.S. is prepared to act militarily if needed.

“If military intervention is required, we will carry it out,” he said. “Israel would clearly be involved. But we would lead it—no one can lead us. We do what we want.”

Trump reaffirms Iran will never acquire nuclear weapons

President Trump emphasized that Iran must never be allowed to obtain nuclear weapons and added that he does not demand much from Iran in a potential agreement.

“The people in Iran are very smart and aware of the current situation,” he said.

Trump’s comments come amid increased international focus on the Iranian nuclear program, with both diplomatic and military paths under active consideration.

US sanctions 5 Iranian companies over nuclear activity

The U.S. Treasury Department announced that it has imposed sanctions on five Iranian-based companies and one individual for supporting Iran’s nuclear development.

Among the targeted entities is the Iran Centrifuge Technology Company (TESA), which is affiliated with the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI).

Also included in the sanctions list are Thorium Power Company (TPC), Pars Reactors Construction and Development Company (Satra Pars), Azarab Industries Co., and Atbin Ista Technical and Engineering Company (AIT). AIT was designated for supporting TESA, along with its board chairman and managing director Majid Mosallat.

Additionally, Pegah Aluminum Arak Company was sanctioned for supplying aluminum products to TESA.

The move is part of ongoing U.S. efforts to constrain Iran’s nuclear capabilities and deter material support to institutions affiliated with the nuclear program.

France warns of ‘almost inevitable’ military conflict if talks fail

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot warned that the failure of nuclear negotiations with Iran would likely lead to a military confrontation, describing the current climate as one of “utmost tension.”

In remarks on Public Senat television, he stated, “We must be extremely vigilant. If the negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program do not succeed, a military confrontation would appear almost inevitable.”

Barrot said Iran’s nuclear escalation is a direct threat to national and regional security, and reaffirmed France’s position that “Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons.” He called for a verifiable and lasting agreement and said France is working closely with international partners to stabilize the region.

He also confirmed the detention of two French nationals in Iran and accused Tehran of using such arrests for political leverage, calling it a “state hostage policy.”

France is planning to file a complaint with the International Court of Justice and warned French citizens against traveling to Iran under any circumstances due to the high risk of arbitrary detention.