Trump Offers Iran ‘Second Chance’ to Deal Amid Israel Strikes/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Trump appealed to Iran to swiftly secure a nuclear deal following Israel’s devastating airstrikes. He described this crisis as Iran’s “second chance” to avoid further destruction. While Israel vows to continue strikes, the U.S. reinforces military assets and emphasizes diplomacy to prevent broader Middle East war.
Trump Urges Diplomacy Amid Israel-Iran War: Quick Looks
- Trump offers Iran a “second chance” to negotiate a nuclear deal after Israel’s strikes.
- Israel vows continued assault, saying it will act “as many days as it takes.”
- U.S. mobilizes forces, redirecting destroyers and reinforcing missile defense systems.
- Military assistance provided, including Patriot and THAAD batteries in region.
- Diplomatic outreach underway, with envoys on the verge of talks in Oman.
- Iran threatens U.S. responsibility if attacks continue without American restraint.
- Talks cast in doubt, with Iran questioning Oman nuclear meeting.
- Markets shaken, with oil prices hitting new highs and stocks dropping.
- Mixed political response, including rare praise from Senator Tim Kaine.
- Alliance tension, as some MAGA loyalists question the shift from military action to diplomacy.
Trump Offers Iran ‘Second Chance’ to Deal Amid Israel Strikes
Deep Look
Trump’s Second Chance Offer
Amid Israel’s aggressive bombing of Iranian nuclear and military facilities, President Trump called for swift diplomatic resolution. Speaking from the White House Situation Room, he urged Iran to take what he termed a “second chance” to prevent complete decimation, referencing his warning that further conflict could leave “nothing left.”
Israel’s Unyielding Strategy
Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu has pledged a sustained campaign to “decapitate” Iran’s nuclear capabilities. The White House clarified the United States played no direct role in Israel’s attack but highlighted that Israeli forces utilized extensive U.S.-made weaponry targeting the Natanz site, missile silos, and Iranian nuclear experts.
Enhanced U.S. Military Positioning
The U.S. moved naval destroyers—including the USS Thomas Hudner—into the Eastern Mediterranean, aiming to support Israeli defense and deter Iranian escalation. Additionally, Patriot and THAAD missile systems have been reinforced in regional locations. President Trump convened his National Security Council to coordinate U.S. posture, amid evacuation orders for military dependents in the area.
Diplomatic Fragility
Trump dispatched his special envoy Steve Witkoff to Oman for nuclear negotiations with Iranian counterparts. However, Iran’s Foreign Ministry has branded further negotiations “meaningless” in the current climate. Witkoff is to proceed to Oman, though Tehran’s participation remains uncertain amid rising tensions.
Market Fallout
Energy markets reacted sharply, with oil prices surging and global stocks pulling back amid fears of expanding regional conflict. Washington’s restraint drew praise from Democrat Senator Tim Kaine, who commended the U.S. for prioritizing diplomacy while warning against escalation risks. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro echoed support for disrupting Iran’s nuclear progress—but cautioned against a full-scale war.
Domestic Political Tension
Trump faces criticism from parts of his base for shifting from military pressure to diplomatic engagement. MAGA influencer Charlie Kirk warned that efforts to prevent war could cause deep divisions within the movement. This underscores Trump’s balancing act between campaign pledges and complex global realities.
Strategic Background
Trump’s push follows his 2018 withdrawal from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, citing it as “worse than the deal.” Now, with heightened Israeli aggression, the opportunity for returning to diplomacy grows more tenuous. Military officials acknowledge Israel’s strikes have severely damaged Iranian nuclear infrastructure, although U.S. intelligence previously concluded no active weapons development was underway.
