Trump says hasn’t decided on major Iran strikes, Tehran getting ‘serious’

President Donald Trump announced Friday that he has not made a final decision regarding major military strikes on Iran, suggesting that Tehran is now approaching talks with Washington with increased seriousness. The comments followed reports of Trump meeting with senior advisors to deliberate on a large-scale military operation against Iran.

"No I haven't," Trump told journalists when asked about a decision. "Look, we're talking to them right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by, for maybe the obvious reason." Trump presented Iran with a choice: either reach a deal or face "much higher level" strikes. This comes after nearly two weeks of escalating attacks and counter-attacks across the region, which have severely damaged a fragile ceasefire.

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No I haven't.

The United States asserts that its strikes are intended to prevent Iran from closing the vital Strait of Hormuz. Iran has conducted attacks on U.S. bases, resulting in the deaths of four service members. "We're locked and loaded and ready to go. But we're talking to them, so I think while we're talking, we'll see what comes of it. I believe… they're very serious. They should be," Trump stated.

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Look, we're talking to them right now. I think they're getting more and more serious as the days go by, for maybe the obvious reason.

The conflict, which Trump had predicted would conclude swiftly, is now nearing its fifth month and is reportedly impacting his approval ratings ahead of crucial midterm elections. Reports from The New York Times and Axios indicated Trump was considering a "massive attack" on Iran. Meanwhile, Iranian officials warned that the next escalation phase could involve Iran striking Tel Aviv. Trump also reiterated his belief that Russia and China are not supplying weapons to Iran, despite earlier reports, stating he trusts their assurances.

Earlier, Trump had used his Truth Social platform to warn Moscow and Beijing against selling weapons to Iran. The situation remains tense, with ongoing diplomatic efforts and the threat of further military action hanging over the region.

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We're locked and loaded and ready to go. But we're talking to them, so I think while we're talking, we'll see what comes of it. I believe… they're very serious. They should be.