Overview
- On Friday President Donald Trump told Axios he faces a “crucial” decision about whether to resume large-scale attacks on Iran and asked publicly if he should “enter and annihilate” the regime.
- Hours earlier Trump expressed a contrasting view, saying he hopes the war is near its end and that Iranian leaders want a deal.
- After pausing major combat operations in early August because of Gulf concerns, the administration has kept sanctions, a naval blockade on Iranian ports, and U.S. forces deployed in the region.
- Officials cited by Axios say Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth ordered current force levels to remain through the end of the year while the White House decides how to proceed.
- Next week’s meeting in New York with leaders of six Gulf states could determine whether Washington wins the regional backing needed for an escalation and what risks to civilian energy infrastructure and regional stability could follow.