U.S. President Donald Trump has raised global concern with his claim that Iran is just “a few weeks away” from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
His statement has reignited tension in the Middle East, especially as the region teeters on the edge of a broader conflict involving Israel and Iran.
“I’ve been saying for 20 years, maybe longer, that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said. “And I think they were a few weeks away from having one.”
The Trump Iran nuclear warning has already sparked criticism and skepticism, particularly from intelligence officials.
Trump believes that Iran, unlike other nations, would use a nuclear weapon if it obtained one.
“Iran can’t have a nuclear weapon too much devastation. And they’d use it,” he added.
However, Trump’s statement clashes with the official stance of the U.S. intelligence community.
In March, Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard stated, “U.S. intelligence agencies continue to assess Iran is not building a nuclear weapon and that Supreme Leader Khamenei has not authorized a nuclear weapons program since suspending it in 2003.”
Furthermore, a CNN report earlier this week cited sources familiar with the matter who claim Iran is still three years away from being able to develop and deliver a nuclear weapon.
Despite these assessments, Trump did not rule out a potential U.S. military response.
Speaking from the Oval Office in an interview with CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, Trump revealed he was consulting with defense officials in the White House Situation Room.
“I have ideas as to what to do, but I haven’t made a final decision,” he said. “I like to make the final decision one second before it’s due, because things change—especially with war.”
Tensions have been mounting between Iran and Israel, with reports indicating Israel has already carried out several powerful strikes on Iranian military targets.
Trump described the attacks as “devastating,” saying, “That first night was devastating. A devastating evening, day, and it pretty much proceeded that way.”
Meanwhile, Trump hinted at a potential shift in U.S.-Iran relations.
He claimed Iranian officials have shown interest in diplomatic talks, though Tehran has denied reaching out to Washington.
“I haven’t closed the door on meeting with them,” Trump said. “They want to meet.”
The President’s statements suggest a readiness to act, but no firm commitment has been made.
