US President Donald Trump is increasingly weighing a tougher military approach toward Iran amid stalled negotiations and rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz, according to a CNN report citing sources
familiar with internal discussions.
The development comes as Trump publicly lashed out at Tehran over what he described as inconsistent positions during negotiations and accused Iran of backing away from earlier understandings.
The report mentioned that Trump has grown “increasingly frustrated” with the way Iranian leaders are handling talks aimed at ending the ongoing conflict, with some aides saying he is now “more seriously considering a resumption of major combat operations than he has in recent weeks.”
Sources quoted by the report said Trump is particularly unhappy over the continued disruption in the Strait of Hormuz and what he sees as divisions within the Iranian leadership that are blocking meaningful concessions during nuclear negotiations.
TRUMP ACCUSES IRAN OF SHIFTING POSITIONS
Speaking to reporters, Trump accused Iran of reneging on an agreement related to enriched uranium.
He said Iranian leaders “change their mind” whenever negotiations appear to make progress.
Trump also claimed there are “moderates” and “lunatics” within the Iranian establishment, adding that the “moderates are dying to make a deal.”
The US President further said he has “the best plan ever” to end the war and described an Iranian counterproposal as “simply unacceptable.”
Trump additionally remarked that he was “very disappointed in the Kurds” while discussing attempts to arm the Iranian people.
According to the report, the latest Iranian response, which Trump reportedly labelled both “totally unacceptable” and “stupid,” has deepened doubts within sections of the administration over whether Tehran is genuinely prepared for serious negotiations.
DIVISIONS EMERGE WITHIN TRUMP ADMINISTRATION
CNN also reported that competing camps have emerged within the administration over the next course of action.
While some officials are advocating a more aggressive strategy, including targeted strikes aimed at weakening Tehran further, others are continuing to push for diplomacy and negotiations.
The report comes amid heightened geopolitical tensions linked to the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit chokepoints.
IRAN DEMANDS END TO WAR, COMPENSATION
According to Reuters, Iran has demanded an end to the war across multiple fronts, including Lebanon, where Israel continues military operations against Iran-backed Hezbollah militants.
Tehran has also sought compensation for war-related damages, an end to the US naval blockade, guarantees against future attacks, and the resumption of Iranian oil exports.
Reuters reported that Iran has also stressed its sovereignty over the Strait of Hormuz, where shipping traffic has been severely disrupted.
The US had reportedly proposed halting the fighting before broader talks on Iran’s nuclear programme could begin, but Tehran defended its position on Monday.
SHIPPING DISRUPTION, SANCTIONS ADD TO PRESSURE
Shipping traffic through the Strait of Hormuz has slowed dramatically compared with pre-war levels.
Data from Kpler and LSEG showed that only three crude-laden tankers exited the waterway last week, with vessels reportedly switching off trackers to avoid potential Iranian attacks.
The report also noted that the US imposed fresh sanctions on individuals and companies accused of helping Iran transport oil to China.
Washington said the measures are part of broader efforts to curb funding for Tehran’s military and nuclear activities.
Trump is meanwhile expected to arrive in Beijing on Wednesday, where Iran is expected to feature prominently in discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping, as Washington pushes Beijing to use its influence to pressure Tehran toward a deal.
