In a significant development in US-Iran relations, US President Donald Trump reportedly dismissed a proposal from Israel to assassinate Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Three US officials informed CBS News, a partner of BBC, about Trump's decision, emphasizing the complexities of the ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
According to one official, Trump conveyed to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu that the assassination of Khamenei was not a prudent course of action. While the president has not publicly commented on this particular report, the conversation is believed to have taken place following Israel's recent military actions against Iran, which commenced on a Friday.
During an interview with Fox News, Netanyahu refrained from confirming or denying the details surrounding Trump's rejection of the assassination plan. He stated, "There are so many false reports of conversations that never happened, and I'm not going to get into that." Netanyahu emphasized Israel's commitment to act in its national interest, asserting, "We will do what we need to do and I think the United States knows what is good for the United States."
An Israeli official further clarified to CBS News that, in principle, Israel does not target political leaders for assassination. Instead, they maintain a focus on nuclear and military threats, stating, "I don't think anyone making decisions about those programs should be living free and easy." This comment underscores Israel's strategic approach amid rising tensions with Iran.
Israel initiated an attack on Iranian nuclear infrastructure and other critical targets last Friday, leading to a rapid escalation of hostilities. Reports confirm that Mohammad Kazemi, the head of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) intelligence unit, was killed during these military operations, along with a deputy and another commander. As the conflict stretches into its third day, both nations have continued to launch extensive strikes against one another.
In a recent post on Truth Social, Trump addressed the escalating situation in the Middle East, suggesting that both Iran and Israel should negotiate a deal to end hostilities. He expressed confidence in his ability to mediate the conflict, drawing a parallel to his previous efforts in de-escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
In a separate statement on Saturday, Trump asserted that the United States had no involvement in the attacks on Iran. He issued a stark warning, stating, "If we are attacked in any way, shape or form by Iran, the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces will come down on you at levels never seen before." This declaration highlights the potential for further escalation in the already volatile region.
