Trump Threatens Further Military Action Against Iran, Linking De-escalation to U.S. Midterms

U.S. President Donald Trump announced that American forces are prepared to launch additional strikes against Iran, following an operation by U.S. Central Command targeting over ten Iranian oil tankers. Trump suggested that the conflict with Iran could conclude shortly after the U.S. midterm elections, adding that global oil prices are also expected to decline once the elections wrap up.

While maintaining a tough stance, Trump kept the door open for potential diplomacy, stating that although he is not actively pursuing a deal with Tehran at this moment, negotiations remain possible and numerous issues could eventually be placed on the table.

Additionally, Trump issued a stern warning to Tehran against taking any "reckless" steps, threatening military action against the "Jabal al-Fas" (Axe Mountain) site near the Natanz uranium enrichment facility. Speaking at a Republican Party conference ahead of the congressional midterms, he noted that U.S. intelligence has observed activity at the site, urging Iranian authorities to take his warnings seriously before he is forced to deploy severe military force.