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

US President Donald Trump indicated in a Sunday interview with Channel 12 News that he is not rushing to make decisions regarding a deal with Iran or resuming military operations against the country. Instead, he is betting on economic pressure to achieve results. Trump stated, "We are lowering the profile on Iran," and added that negotiations are only partial. He highlighted Iran's severe economic difficulties, noting rampant inflation and a lack of funds to pay soldiers, calling the US naval blockade "very effective."

Trump also linked the recent drop in oil prices to lower fuel costs in the US, describing the situation as a chess game that will resolve itself. Just a week earlier, he was close to ordering a large-scale military operation against Iran but has since refrained from new threats of force. He showed no frustration over Iran delaying the announcement of an agreement with Oman concerning the Strait of Hormuz, despite Iran imposing new conditions for reopening the strait.

US officials explained that as long as fighting continued, the Iranian regime avoided facing the war's consequences, including infrastructure damage and a deepening economic crisis. Without ongoing conflict, the regime must now confront harsh realities without real solutions. Approximately 8 million barrels of oil still transit nightly through the southern route of the Strait of Hormuz, coordinated with the US military, and the US aims to increase exports this way until a formal agreement is reached.

Meanwhile, the Iran-Oman agreement is progressing, with a declaration expected soon. The deal reportedly includes a temporary 60-day arrangement for the strait, extendable if needed, a renewed ceasefire, and coordinated maritime traffic through Iranian or Omani waters. It also involves commitments to clear mines from the strait's central channel within 30 days.