President Trump signaled Thursday that he is actively weighing a return to large-scale military operations against Iran, positioning himself on the edge of a consequential decision that could reshape Middle East tensions and global energy markets.
In a conversation with Axios, Trump declared he is "close to making a decision" on launching strikes he described as "bigger than ever before." He framed the operation as ready to execute, stating "we are all set for it." The president acknowledged the move would carry fallout but stopped short of announcing any final determination or timeline.
Two U.S. officials independently confirmed that no military orders have been issued and no formal call has yet been made, suggesting the threat remains in the consideration phase rather than execution.
Trump indicated Israel could be drawn into any new campaign if asked, claiming the country would "join in two minutes." However, he underscored that the operation does not require Israeli participation, adding a notable caveat: there would be "consequences" for Israel if it joins, a veiled reference to potential Iranian retaliation.
The president's comments arrive as tensions spiral across two critical shipping corridors. The U.S. has ramped up military pressure over the past 12 days to counter Iranian attacks on commercial vessels in the Strait of Hormuz. Iran has answered by escalating its own operations. Meanwhile, Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have begun striking Saudi ships in the Red Sea, introducing a second flashpoint that is destabilizing global oil supplies.
Oil prices have already surged past $100 per barrel amid the escalating hostilities. Public opinion polling shows Americans overwhelmingly oppose a new war with Iran.
Trump characterized Iran's negotiating posture as reluctant, saying Iranian leadership "want to negotiate" but are unprepared to reach terms. "They haven't received enough pain yet," he stated. Regional sources involved in mediation efforts reported that Iran has rejected the latest proposal on the table, with one saying "we are trying, but the Iranians are not being helpful."
On social media, Trump threatened that any further Houthi strikes on Red Sea shipping would prompt the U.S. to hold Iran responsible. He labeled the Houthis as Iranian proxies and pledged "major military punishment" against both Iran and the rebel group itself.
In a separate development, Trump noted that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is considering attending next week's wake for late Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington. Trump said relations with Netanyahu remain strong and that he would meet with the Israeli leader if the visit materializes.
Author James Rodriguez: "Trump is playing brinkmanship with Iran while the world watches oil prices climb and waits for him to decide whether to pull the trigger on a war nobody wants."
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