US strike on Iran possible this weekend, says envoy Tom Barrack

US envoy Tom Barrack told a podcast host that the United States could strike Iran as soon as this weekend, following threats made by both Washington and Israel. Barrack, who has no direct role on Iran, said on the podcast, "Could there be a strike this weekend? Absolutely." He added that President Donald Trump is open to a deal with Iran, having been at the table for months.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who is facing elections, has vowed to topple the clerical state in Iran recently, following two major bombing campaigns against it. Trump has also signaled openness to resuming strikes after a long deadlock in diplomacy, although he initially ruled it out before US congressional elections.

Barrack, however, contradicts Netanyahu's claim, stating that the US is not looking to topple the Islamic republic. He emphasized that the US president does not have an interest in regime change. Barrack warned that if Iran continues to threaten the world and its allies, including the Gulf, there will be consequences that would not involve regime change.

He added, "The United States — the president of the United States — has said he’s not interested in regime change." Barrack further explained, "The problem with regime change always is, what's the day-two scenario?"