The escalating conflict between Israel and Iran is fueling fears of a broader war.

Fears have even been expressed that this could be the start of a third World War.

Iran has launched hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones at Israeli cities in retaliation for Israel’s initial strikes on nuclear and military facilities.

Hundreds have been killed, and concerns are mounting over a possible regional spillover and the impact on global energy markets.

At the heart of growing international unease is former U.S. President Donald Trump, who reportedly approved military strike plans but is holding off, saying he will decide “one second before” whether the U.S. will join Israel’s campaign.

Trump urged Iran to surrender unconditionally — a demand that was firmly rejected by Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, who warned of severe consequences if the U.S. intervenes.

The White House said on Thursday that Trump will make a decision on whether the US will get involved in the next two weeks.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt quoted a message from Trump:

“Based on the fact that there’s a substantial chance of negotiations that may or may not take place with Iran in the near future, I will make my decision whether or not to go within the next two weeks.”

Meanwhile, nations including the UK, Russia, and the UN are calling for restraint, as some countries begin evacuating citizens amid fears of an expanding conflict.

READ: Iran-Israel Crisis: G7 call for ‘de-escalation’ of hostilities