Trump calls for ‘real end’ to Iran nuclear standoff amid war

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday he wants a “real end” — not a ceasefire — to the nuclear dispute with Iran, as the Israel‑Iran conflict entered its fifth day. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated bluntly: “Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. It’s very simple.” He suggested senior U.S. officials could soon be dispatched for talks with Tehran, but warned that “our patience is wearing thin.” The comments came as the Israeli military continued its aerial campaign across Iran, which it claims is aimed at stopping Tehran from reaching nuclear weapons capability. Israeli officials say their initial surprise strike last week killed most of Iran’s top military leadership and key nuclear scientists. Iran denies it is pursuing nuclear arms, calling Israel’s claims “a lie.” Meanwhile, Iran’s Red Crescent on Tuesday released video purporting to show rescue teams pulling civilians from rubble in Tehran following recent Israeli strikes. Iran says at least 224 people, mostly civilians, have died in the attacks since Friday. In Israel, officials say 24 people have been killed and more than 640 wounded in retaliatory missile strikes by Iran. An Iranian missile struck the Arab‑Israeli town of Tamra, killing four women from the same family. Israel’s Defense Minister Israel Katz warned Iran’s leaders to “remember what happened to Saddam Hussein,” referencing the executed Iraqi dictator, as he vowed continued retaliation. On social media, Trump added that U.S. intelligence knew the whereabouts of Iran’s top leadership but said, “We are not going to take him out — at least not for now.” Military analysts say Israel now dominates Iranian airspace but lacks the bunker‑busting capability to destroy deeply buried nuclear facilities without U.S. support.