Trump Seeks ‘real end’ to Iran Nuclear Crisis as Israel Intensifies Strikes

U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed a firm commitment to resolving the nuclear dispute with Iran, as the Israel-Iran air conflict enters its fifth day. Speaking after an early exit from the G7 summit in Canada on June 16, 2025, Trump hinted at deploying senior officials, such as Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff or Vice President JD Vance, to engage with Iranian counterparts.

Israel’s Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stark warning to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, likening his potential fate to that of Saddam Hussein, the former Iraqi leader toppled and executed following a U.S.-led invasion. Katz’s statement came as he accused Iran of war crimes and missile attacks on Israeli civilians, shortly before explosions rocked Tehran and Isfahan, according to Iran’s state media and Mehr news agency.

Trump dismissed speculation that his G7 departure was tied to a ceasefire proposal, as suggested by French President Emmanuel Macron, emphasizing a “much bigger” initiative on his Truth Social platform. Despite escalating military clashes, Washington remains focused on securing a nuclear deal with Iran, though Trump predicted Israel’s airstrikes would not relent in the coming days.

Iran’s leadership faces mounting pressure as Israeli strikes have eliminated key military figures, including wartime chief of staff Ali Shadmani, killed just four days into his role. These losses have weakened Khamenei’s inner circle, with sources close to his decision-making process warning of potential strategic missteps amid Iran’s diminishing regional influence.

The ongoing air war has heightened regional tensions, with Israel’s military claiming Iran’s leadership is “on the run” following targeted strikes on its command structure. Explosions in Tehran and Isfahan underscore the intensifying conflict, raising fears of further escalation as diplomatic efforts struggle to keep pace.

Trump’s push for a “real end” to the nuclear issue reflects a dual strategy of diplomacy and pressure, even as Israel’s aggressive posture complicates negotiations. The coming days will be critical in determining whether U.S. mediation can de-escalate the crisis or if the region will spiral further into conflict.