War between Iran and Israel / Envato Market

by Emmitt Barry, Worthy News Washington D.C. Bureau Chief

(Worthy News) – U.S. President Donald Trump has authorized plans for potential military strikes against Iran but is holding off on giving the final order as he awaits Tehran’s decision on its nuclear program, according to a report by The Wall Street Journal. Three sources familiar with the discussions said Trump approved operational plans after a briefing by Gen. Michael Kurilla, commander of U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), during a high-level meeting earlier this week.

When asked by reporters whether he had decided to strike Iran’s nuclear facilities, Trump said, “I may do it, I may not do it.” He reaffirmed his demand for Iran’s unconditional surrender, warning, “The next week is going to be very big, maybe less than a week.”

The timing of Trump’s potential announcement is drawing attention from observers of biblical prophecy. Thursday coincides with the 23rd day of Sivan on the Jewish calendar–the date noted in Esther 8:9-11 when King Ahasuerus decreed that the Jews could defend themselves from those who sought their destruction. Some Christian leaders see a symbolic parallel as Trump deliberates on decisive action in defense of Israel.

Talks Amid the Tension

On Wednesday, Trump reportedly arranged a rare meeting with Iranian Foreign Ministry officials to explore whether diplomacy could avert a clash. A senior Iranian diplomat, speaking anonymously to The New York Times, said Iran is prepared to meet and discuss not only its nuclear program but also a possible ceasefire with Israel. Tehran previously signaled willingness for a truce, provided Israel “calms things down” amid ongoing airstrikes.

However, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected Trump’s call for unconditional surrender, warning that any U.S. attack would result in “irreparable harm” to America. As Israeli airstrikes intensified, panicked residents clogged highways fleeing Tehran.

Putin Urges Diplomacy, Stresses Russian Nationals’ Safety

Russian President Vladimir Putin entered the fray Wednesday evening, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities. “It would be right for everyone to look for ways to end hostilities and find ways for all parties to come to an agreement,” Putin said. He reiterated that Russia had shared proposals with regional players and expressed openness to mediation–though Trump conditioned any Kremlin role on progress regarding the war in Ukraine.

Putin dismissed speculation that Israel might target Khamenei and claimed Iranian society is “consolidating around its leadership.” He acknowledged past military sales to Tehran but insisted they weren’t linked to the current war. Putin also emphasized that Iran’s underground uranium enrichment sites remain intact and underscored Russia’s interest in their protection, noting the presence of approximately 250 Russian personnel working in Iran’s nuclear plants.

U.S. Military Buildup

In a clear show of force, the U.S. Navy is deploying the USS Gerald R. Ford–its newest and most advanced aircraft carrier–to the Mediterranean. This marks the first time since the 2003 Iraq invasion that multiple U.S. carrier groups have operated simultaneously near the Middle East. The last comparable triple-carrier deployment was in 2017, in the Pacific during tensions with North Korea.

While officials say the Ford’s deployment was scheduled as part of NATO and regional commitments, its arrival at this volatile moment signals U.S. readiness. This week, Washington also sent 28 air refueling aircraft to the region, positioning for potential extended air operations.

President Trump reiterated that the United States does not seek direct involvement in the Israel-Iran conflict unless attacked. But he warned, “If we are attacked, you will be hit with the full force of the U.S. military.”

As the world watches and waits, the next moves by Washington, Tehran, and Jerusalem could shape the trajectory of the crisis–and perhaps fulfill ancient parallels noted on this significant date in the Jewish calendar.

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