Trump Says Iran Deal Is Not His Preferred Option, Predicts War Will End Soon
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump has expressed reluctance to reach a negotiated agreement with Iran despite acknowledging progress in ongoing diplomatic discussions, while predicting that the war involving the two countries could end soon.
Speaking at a campaign rally in San Antonio, Texas, on Wednesday, Trump praised his special envoy Steve Witkoff for his work on negotiations with Tehran but suggested that a formal agreement was not his preferred outcome.
Trump said Witkoff was performing well in the talks, although he personally remained hesitant about pursuing a deal. He also claimed that Iranian officials were prepared to make significant concessions to bring the conflict to an end.
The president reiterated his position that Iran must never acquire a nuclear weapon, a longstanding demand of his administration.
Trump also expressed confidence that the conflict would conclude soon, although he did not provide a specific timetable or explain how an end to hostilities would be achieved.
His remarks came amid reports that the White House had requested military options from the Pentagon for possible additional strikes against Iranian targets.
The options were reportedly being considered in the period surrounding the November 3 US midterm elections, although no final decision on further military action had been publicly confirmed.
A Pentagon official declined to confirm or deny the reported planning, explaining that the department’s responsibility includes developing military options for the president.
Separate reporting suggested that US Central Command had been instructed to complete preparations for potentially resuming major combat operations against Iran.
However, the reported preparations did not establish that an attack had been authorised or that a specific launch date had been selected.
The diplomatic uncertainty comes as security conditions in the Strait of Hormuz remain volatile.
Maritime security assessments recorded at least 12 attacks or attempted attacks involving oil, liquefied natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas tankers in the region between September 28 and October 5.
The International Maritime Organization separately recorded nine vessel-related incidents during the same period, reflecting differences in reporting and verification methods.
The continued threats to commercial shipping have raised concerns about energy supplies and the safety of vessels using one of the world’s most important oil transportation routes.
Trump’s latest comments highlight the uncertainty surrounding Washington’s approach to Tehran, with diplomatic engagement continuing alongside preparations for possible military action.
No final agreement or confirmed timetable for ending the war has been announced.
