President Trump believed that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s dismissal of his diplomatic efforts was a sign of disrespect, leading to his decision to launch airstrikes on Tehran’s nuclear facilities, as per a recent report.
As the airstrike on the Fordow fuel enrichment plant approached, Trump’s frustration with Iran peaked, convinced that the attack would proceed smoothly despite reports indicating his indecision.
“In the end, it all came down to timing,” a source close to Trump informed Axios. “The Ayatollah showed Trump and the U.S. a lack of respect. And that had consequences.”
Last week, Trump had issued a warning to Tehran, demanding a new nuclear deal or face repercussions. Reports suggested that Turkey was facilitating a potential meeting between the Trump administration and Iranian officials.
Trump even expressed willingness to personally meet Iran’s supreme leader in order to advance negotiations.
However, the talks never came to fruition.