Iran and Israel are engaged in the battle of the cities: Will the US Join the War — and Why?

By Elijah J. Magnier

The Israel-Iran war erupted after Israel launched a sudden airstrike last Friday on Iranian nuclear and military infrastructure, citing concerns over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions. The attack triggered an immediate and forceful response from Iran, marking the start of direct open hostilities between two long-time rivals in a confrontation now threatening to reshape the Middle East.

Iran has shifted its modus operandi, reclaimed control of the battlefield and organised itself for a full-scale war. Still, it’s open to halting operations immediately — if Israel, the side that launched the conflict, is prepared to do the same. That outcome, however, remains premature. It would embarrass Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has failed to achieve his war objectives and is now waiting for the United States to step in. The question remains: will President Donald Trump intervene, contain the war before it escalates further, or let it unfold? And what would his goals be?