President Donald Trump is desperate not to fight a war with Iran. But can he really avoid it? Compelling national security arguments and domestic political considerations mean it makes sense to stop short of direct US offensive operations in the long-dreaded conflict that Israel describes as a matter of preserving its own existence.

President Donald Trump on Sunday issued a stark warning to Iran against retaliating on U.S. targets in the Middle East while also predicting Israel and Iran would “soon” make a deal to end their escalating conflict.

President Trump's upcoming week is expected to include addressing the Israel-Iran conflict, attending the G7 summit in Canada and responding to nationwide anti-ICE protests.