Since the Iran–Israel war broke out on June 13, 2025, President Donald Trump has been more active and bellicose than anticipated, far more assertive than during his first term. In quick response to Israeli strikes, Trump has openly praised the attacks, shifted considerable U.S. military assets towards the region, and issued ominous warnings to Tehran. Below is a step-by-step chronological breakdown of what he has done and what is most likely to occur next.
/* June 13 Israeli Strikes Spark Conflict*/
On June 13, Israel launched Operation Rising Lion—a simultaneous strike on over 100 Iranian nuclear and military targets, including Natanz and leading commanders, citing an existential threat from Iran's nuclear program. Sources indicate that Mossad operatives smuggled drone components and precision‑guided weapons into central Iran, then established a covert drone base near Tehran. These drones, along with vehicle‑based strike systems, specifically targeted air-defence sites and missile launchers to pave the way for air strikes. Tehran responded with ballistic missiles and drones on Israeli cities like Tel Aviv and Haifa. Iran reports over 224 killed, largely civilians; Israel reports at least eight military or civilian deaths.
Trump described the Israeli strike as "excellent" and "very successful," and said Iran "must make a deal now" or face "even more devastating and lethal military action." He emphasised U.S. military support for Israel.
Within days, the USS Nimitz carrier strike group—the Carl Vinson and supporting destroyers—was redirected from the Indo-Pacific into the Middle East, augmenting U.S. forces already stationed in the Mediterranean.
/*U.S. Air Force Refueling Aircraft Surge*/
More than 31 U.S. Air Force tanker aircraft (KC‑135s, KC‑46s) were surged overnight across Europe—at Germany's Ramstein, the U.K., Estonia, and Greece—suggesting preparation for high-tempo air operations.
Trump also reiterated several times, "IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON," cheered on Israeli strikes, and commanded Tehran to be evacuated with immediate effect. He also threatened that American forces would attack "levels never seen before" if U.S. interests are targeted.
Trump demanded evacuating all 9 million Tehran citizens, mirroring an Israeli warning given for parts of the city. He spoke of intelligence about impending strikes near military facilities.
/* Departure from the G7 Summit*/
At the G7 in Canada (Kananaskis), Trump exited early, stating he “had to be back… it’s big stuff,” citing the escalating Iran–Israel war.
Back in Washington, he convened a White House Situation Room meeting and reaffirmed that while the U.S. knows Supreme Leader Khamenei’s location—calling him an “easy target”—no direct strike was planned yet. He pushed for “UNCONDITIONAL SURRENDER” from Tehran.
The U.S. military posture has been strengthened: two carrier groups, various destroyers, airborne refueling capability, Patriot and THAAD missile defense, and authorization to evacuate families from regional bases. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called it a strengthened "defensive posture" to protect U.S. forces.
/*Diplomatic Efforts and Ceasefire Discussions*/
Trump and others have expressed openness to pursuing diplomatic channels. G7 leaders emphasised de-escalation and a broader ceasefire, including Gaza, and reported coordination on ceasefire talks. Trump, nevertheless, downplayed ceasefire talks, stating his G7 return had "nothing to do with a ceasefire—much bigger than that".
/*Trump's Social Media Posts*/
On Truth Social and X, Trump's significant posts were:
Posted on June 17 via X: /*We know exactly where the so‑called ‘Supreme Leader’ is hiding. He is an easy target, but is safe there—We are not going to take him out (kill!), at least not for now. But we don't want missiles shot at civilians or American soldiers. Our patience is wearing thin. Thank you for your attention to this matter.”*/
Posted on Truth Social on June 16: /*IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON…*/ Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!”
This blunt declaration reiterated his red line on nuclear proliferation and urged immediate civilian evacuation from Tehran.
In a Truth Social post on June 13: /*“We provided Iran 60 days to reach an agreement… today is 61.”*/
Trump emphasised that the 60-day ultimatum had expired, marking day 61 while still offering Iran a “second chance” at negotiation.
/*“If we are attacked… the complete force and fury of the U.S. military…”*/
On Truth Social, he warned that any aggression toward U.S. interests would trigger “the full strength and might of the U.S. Armed Forces … at levels never seen before”
/*What Trump Plans Next*/
Trump is keeping military pressure steady while indicating readiness to intensify if Iran assaults U.S. interests. Simultaneously, he is calling upon diplomatic channels—mentioning ongoing ceasefire negotiations and demanding talks—most probably attempting to use military buildup as leverage.