Trump says adopting low-key strategy toward Iran, hinting at shelving military strikes

U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a more subdued approach to Iran, stating, "We are handling this low key." This statement, made in a brief phone interview with Axios, suggests a potential dialing back of military threats despite recent tensions.

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We are handling this low key.

The shift in tone follows a period of heightened rhetoric, including a threat from Trump just a week prior to "hit Iran hard." The U.S. president is reportedly seeking an agreement to end the conflict initiated by the U.S. and Israel on February 28. Trump expressed no frustration over Iran's delay in reaching a deal regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global fuel prices.

Under a memorandum of understanding signed in June, Iran has demanded the U.S. lift its blockade on Iranian ports and end oil sanctions. Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz since the conflict began has caused global fuel prices to surge and destabilized the world economy. With the November midterm elections approaching, the Trump administration faces increasing pressure to manage these economic impacts.

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We are not seriously negotiating with them at all. We are just watching Iran, watching their high inflation and their fiscal exhaustion.

"We are not seriously negotiating with them at all. We are just watching Iran, watching their high inflation and their fiscal exhaustion," Trump told Axios. He also noted that falling oil prices were easing pressure on U.S. consumers. Describing the U.S.-Iran dynamic, Trump likened it to a "chess game" that "will get resolved, it always does."

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Things will get resolved, it always does. It is like a chess game.