RismadarVoice Reporters
October 23, 2026
United States Ambassador to Türkiye, Tom Barrack, has warned that Washington could launch another military strike against Iran as early as this weekend, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts to prevent renewed hostilities.
Barrack made the remarks during an interview with online commentator Mario Nawfal on Friday, amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security concerns.
Asked whether another American military operation against Iran could take place during the weekend, Barrack responded: “Could there be a strike this weekend? Absolutely.”
However, the diplomat did not confirm that President Donald Trump had authorised an attack or that a specific date had been set for military action.
Barrack, who also serves as the US special envoy to Syria and Iraq, said Trump remained willing to negotiate an agreement with Tehran but expected Iranian authorities to address Washington’s demands.
According to him, discussions between the two countries have continued for months, with nuclear enrichment, sanctions and regional security among the major issues under consideration.
He suggested that a potential agreement could involve sanctions relief, the release of frozen assets and commitments aimed at preventing further military confrontations.
The envoy nevertheless warned that continued threats against the United States and its regional allies could attract consequences.
Addressing concerns that renewed military action might be intended to remove Iran’s leadership, Barrack insisted that regime change was not Washington’s stated objective.
“The consequence won’t be regime change,” he said.
He explained that the administration’s priority was to restore regional stability, reduce security threats and create conditions for a negotiated settlement.
His comments come as diplomatic efforts continue amid concerns that renewed American or Israeli strikes could trigger wider hostilities across the Middle East.
Recent reports indicate that Washington has strengthened military preparations in the region, although the timing of any possible operation remains uncertain.
Trump has also previously indicated that further military action could be delayed until after the November 3 midterm elections, underscoring uncertainty surrounding the administration’s immediate intentions.
Barrack’s remarks therefore represent a warning that military action remains an option rather than confirmation of an imminent attack.
The situation continues to attract international attention as diplomatic negotiations and military preparations proceed simultaneously.
