Trump says facing major decision regarding US-Iran conflict

Washington (ANTARA) - US President Donald Trump has stated that he is facing a major decision regarding the future of the conflict with Iran, amidst the deadlock in peace negotiations between the two nations.

On 9 September, Trump stated that the US-Iran war could end after the Congressional midterm elections on 3 November. However, on Sunday, he suggested that peace could be achieved before those elections.

“I will face a major decision. Do I want to go in and annihilate them (Iran), or not? This is a major decision,” Trump told Axios.

“Anything can happen with me,” he added.

According to reports, Trump had previously made similar statements; his latest threat was delivered ahead of a meeting with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Oman on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

Trump is likely to consider the perspectives of these Gulf nations when determining Washington’s next steps, particularly if he chooses to re-engage in large-scale military operations.

The US and Israel launched attacks against several targets in Iran on 28 February. Iran subsequently retaliated with attacks against US and Israeli forces.

After months of mutual attacks, Tehran and Washington signed a memorandum of understanding to cease hostilities in mid-June. However, attacks resumed shortly after the agreement was reached.

The conflict remains unresolved, and hostilities continue to erupt occasionally.

Washington has also increased economic pressure on the Islamic Republic of Iran as part of its efforts to end the conflict by intensifying financial pressure on Tehran.