Trump Signals Patience on Iran, Emphasizes Economic Pressure Over Military Action

In an interview with Israel's Channel 12 on August 9, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump indicated a strategic shift regarding Iran, focusing on economic pressure rather than immediate military intervention. Trump described ongoing negotiations with Iran as "very partial" and said the U.S. is "lowering the profile" on the issue, closely monitoring Iran's severe economic crisis, including rampant inflation and a lack of funds to pay its military personnel. He highlighted the effectiveness of the U.S. naval blockade, stating, "Our naval blockade is very effective."

Trump also noted that the recent drop in oil prices to about $75 per barrel is helping reduce fuel costs in the United States, comparing the situation to a chess game that will eventually resolve itself. Just a week prior, Trump was on the verge of ordering a large-scale military operation against Iran but has since refrained from issuing new threats of force. He expressed no frustration over Iran delaying the announcement of an agreement with Oman concerning the Strait of Hormuz and acknowledged Iran's new conditions for reopening the strait.

Senior American officials explained that ongoing fighting had previously shielded the Iranian regime from confronting the full consequences of war, including infrastructure damage and a deepening economic crisis. Without active conflict, the regime now faces harsh realities with no easy solutions. Approximately 8 million barrels of oil continue to be exported nightly through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz, coordinated with the U.S. military. The U.S. aims to increase this export volume until a formal agreement to reopen the strait is reached.

Meanwhile, the Iran-Oman agreement is reportedly nearing completion, expected to be announced soon. It will likely include a temporary 60-day arrangement for the Strait of Hormuz, with a possible extension, a renewed ceasefire, and coordinated maritime traffic through Iranian or Omani waters. The deal also reportedly commits both parties to clear mines from the strait's central channel within 30 days.