Trump: (Intervention in Iran) I might, or I might not

U.S. President Donald Trump made statements regarding the escalating tension in the Iran-Israel conflict in the Middle East.

Speaking to reporters at the White House during a flagpole construction event, Trump responded to questions about whether the U.S. would intervene in Iran by saying, "I cannot speak definitively. I might, or I might not. Nobody knows what I want to do. But I can say this: Iran has very big problems and they want to reach a settlement."

Stating that he had no idea how long the conflicts would last, Trump claimed in his statement that Iran's air defense systems had been completely destroyed, leaving the country defenseless.

"I HAVE NO PATIENCE LEFT"

Pointing to his ongoing discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump said, "I have no patience left. I told Netanyahu to 'keep going'," and wished Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "good luck." The U.S. President also argued that he believes Iran plans to use its nuclear program for "malicious intentions," adding, "We are not looking for a long-term war. There is only one thing I want. Iran cannot possess a nuclear weapon."

Stating that Iran is ready for negotiations but that it is now too late for dialogue, Trump said, "Iranian representatives wanted to come to the White House, but I told them that would be difficult." He added, "It is too late to talk now. Our demands are two simple words: 'unconditional surrender,' and then we will go and blow up all the nuclear things in Iran."

"PUTIN OFFERED MEDIATION"

Trump said, "I wouldn't say we have won anything yet, but we have certainly made a lot of progress. We will see, nothing is over. Big things could happen next week." Trump stated that he spoke with Russian President Vladimir Putin last night and that Putin offered to mediate between Iran and Israel. Trump recounted his response to Putin: "I told Vladimir, let's mediate for Russia first. You can think about that later."