The United States could launch fresh military strikes against Iran as early as this weekend, US Ambassador to Turkey Tom Barrack has said, amid stalled negotiations and rising tensions involving Washington and Israel.
Barrack made the remarks on Friday during an interview with podcast host Mario Nawfal while visiting the Gulf, saying President Donald Trump remained willing to negotiate a deal with Tehran despite the possibility of further military action.
Asked whether a strike could take place over the weekend, Barrack replied, “Absolutely.”
He said Washington had spent months pursuing negotiations and that Trump remained open to reaching an agreement with Iran.
However, Barrack warned that the United States would respond if Iran continued to threaten its allies and countries in the Gulf region.
According to the envoy, any potential military action would not be aimed at overthrowing Iran’s government.
“The consequence won’t be regime change,” Barrack said, adding that Trump was not interested in replacing the Iranian leadership.
He questioned the practicality of removing the government without a clear plan for what would follow, asking what the situation would look like the day after a regime change.
His comments contrast with recent statements by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has repeatedly called for the removal of Iran’s clerical leadership.
Trump has also indicated that military action remains an option following a prolonged diplomatic deadlock, although he previously said strikes would not take place before the November 3 US congressional elections.
The renewed threat comes as diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict remain uncertain. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan warned on Friday that further attacks on Iran would intensify regional tensions and widen the conflict, urging the parties to pursue diplomacy.
Barrack’s remarks indicate that Washington is maintaining the possibility of military action while leaving the door open to a negotiated settlement with Tehran.