President Donald Trump said renewed open warfare with Iran is “highly unlikely” if negotiations advance, while warning that the United States could conduct additional strikes if talks fail to produce an agreement. His comments outlined a conditional approach as Washington seeks restrictions on Iran’s nuclear program and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The conflict has lasted more than eight months, with periods of fighting interrupted by ceasefires and negotiations. It has contributed to higher oil prices and inflation. Previous efforts to secure a lasting truce and restore passage through the strait have failed to resolve the dispute.
In an interview with CNN, Trump said further military action would depend on whether Iran signs what he called a “very strong agreement.” He reiterated threats against Iranian bridges and power plants and said three American aircraft carriers were available. He also claimed U.S. forces could destroy 38 bridges within an hour.
The remarks followed midterm elections in which Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress. The result could increase pressure on the administration to end the conflict. High gasoline prices were a factor in Republican losses, and some Republicans may also favor an agreement.
Trump has demanded that Iran fully reopen the Strait of Hormuz and commit never to develop a nuclear weapon. An agreement ending the war and restoring access to the waterway could help reduce oil prices, although the outcome of ongoing negotiations remains uncertain.
Meanwhile, Trump said on Truth Social that Task Force Iron Gate was operating alongside the American naval blockade of Iranian ports. U.S. Central Command announced the initiative Saturday, describing its purpose as disrupting transfers of advanced weapons, dual-use technologies, sanctioned materials and illicit revenue across Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea. The naval blockade has remained in place for several months.