When Israel began its assault on Iran, President Trump kept his distance. But within days he was on a path that led to an extensive bombing mission aided by political and military ruses.

Iran’s foreign minister is to meet his European counterparts Friday. Trump said he would give diplomacy a chance, dashing Israeli hopes of immediate U.S. involvement.

The Israeli military needs American help to destroy a key nuclear site in Iran. Waiting for that help comes with risks for Israel.