Washington (GNP): United States (US) President Donald Trump has signalled reluctance to settle the war with Iran through a deal, even while saying his special envoy Steve Witkoff is making progress in talks. His remarks come as reports emerge that the Pentagon is preparing options for possible renewed strikes on Iranian targets.
Trump spoke at a campaign rally in San Antonio, Texas, on Wednesday. He said Witkoff was handling the negotiations well, but suggested that a deal was not his preferred course.
In his words, Iran is willing to offer the US anything to make the fighting stop. He added that Iran would never have a nuclear weapon.
He praised Witkoff as a great negotiator and credited him with helping secure a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. Trump also predicted that the war with Iran would end soon.
The comments arrived alongside reports of a different track. According to one magazine report, the White House asked the Pentagon to develop military options for possible strikes on Iranian targets before the US midterm elections on 3 November.
The same report said administration officials were still debating the scale and targets of any strikes. They were also weighing whether Trump would ultimately authorise military action, and some of his advisers reportedly felt the timing would suit the period after the elections.
A White House official told the publication that Trump had “all options available at any time”. The official did not say whether a decision on further strikes was imminent.
Also Read: Trump Claims He ‘Deserves Nobel Peace Prize’ Ahead of Verdict
A separate report added more detail. It said the Pentagon had instructed US Central Command (CENTCOM) to finish preparations for a possible resumption of major combat operations in Iran. Citing US officials, it said the directive did not give a date for any action.
The Pentagon has not confirmed the reports. A Pentagon official said developing and presenting military options to the president is part of the department’s responsibilities, but neither confirmed nor denied the specific claims.
For now, the diplomatic path remains uncertain. Washington continues to treat restrictions on Iran’s nuclear activities as a central condition for any lasting agreement.
Trump said, “That war ends, it’s going to be very soon.”
