Trump Faces Major Decision on Iran as He Weighs Renewed Strikes

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says he is approaching a major decision over the next phase of the U.S. conflict with Iran, raising the possibility of renewed large-scale military action even as he has recently suggested the war could be nearing its end.

In an interview with Axios, Trump said he was weighing whether to resume major attacks against Iran. He described the choice as a significant one and left open the possibility of further military escalation.

The comments came just a day after Trump told reporters that he “hopefully” believed the war was nearing its conclusion. He also said Iran had reached out directly and indicated that Tehran wanted to make a deal, though the details of any potential agreement remain unclear.

Gulf leaders could influence the next step

Trump is expected to meet leaders from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly next week.

Trump said he wants to hear from the regional leaders before deciding what comes next. The Gulf countries have major security and economic interests at stake because the conflict has affected regional energy infrastructure and shipping routes.

Meanwhile, U.S. forces remain positioned in the Middle East, keeping Washington prepared for a possible change in military strategy.

A critical moment

The latest statements leave two possibilities on the table: continued diplomatic efforts toward an agreement or a return to broader military operations.

For now, Trump has not announced a final decision, and the situation remains fluid as Washington prepares for discussions with regional partners.