US President Donald Trump stopped short of saying an Israeli attack on Iran was imminent, but warned it "could happen" as the US continues to pressure Tehran for a nuclear deal while preparing evacuations from the Middle East.
"I don't want to say imminent, but it seems like it could happen," Trump said. "Look, it's very simple, not complicated. Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon. Other than that, I want them to succeed," he continued. "We'll help them succeed, we'll trade with them. We'll do whatever it takes," he added.
Trump ultimately said he would "very much like to avoid conflict," but said Iran would have to negotiate "a little tougher."
"I mean, they're going to have to give us some things that they're not willing to give us right now," he said, apparently referring to Iran's refusal so far to give up its nuclear enrichment capabilities.
Trump told reporters on Wednesday that the US has advised evacuations in the Middle East, as the security situation with Tehran could become "dangerous" due to uncertain nuclear negotiations.
"They're leaving because it could be a dangerous place," Trump said. "We've given notice to leave and we'll see what happens."
The US president's comments came after the US embassy in Iraq ordered a partial evacuation of non-emergency government personnel and military dependents were authorized to leave countries around the Middle East.