Frustrated by Iran War, Donald Trump Enters 'Revenge Mode'

US President Donald Trump is reported to be losing patience with the conflict against Iran, which has entered its fifth month. In a recent Oval Office meeting, Trump vented his frustration at Iranian leaders with coarse language, signalling a shift in his approach. Initially convinced the conflict would be resolved within weeks, Trump now appears to be in ‘revenge mode’, doubting the path of negotiation and believing that only military force is understood by Tehran.

The war has brought significant political and personal pressure. It has triggered a rise in prices, a drop in Trump’s approval rating, and the loss of more than a dozen US troops. White House advisors fear the ongoing conflict could erode the Republican Party’s chances in the upcoming midterm elections. Adding to the strain, US intelligence agencies have warned of an Iranian plot to assassinate Trump, a threat that forced a change of aircraft during his recent visit to Turkey.

Previous de-escalation efforts, including a ceasefire announcement in April and a memorandum of understanding to open the Strait of Hormuz in June, have failed. Tensions escalated further after Houthi militants attacked two Saudi Arabian tankers in the Red Sea, prompting Trump to threaten massive military punishment. In response, the US is now surging special forces, fighter jets, and medical personnel to the Middle East. A senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Michael McCaul, noted that Trump feels betrayed and is reverting to a military operation plan. Meanwhile, the White House is attempting to shift public focus to domestic economic initiatives, with Trump visiting Georgia to promote cost-of-living reduction measures.