Backed into a corner? Trump ready to end Iran war without nuclear deal - report

President Donald Trump may be prepared to terminate the Iran conflict without securing a nuclear agreement, according to a recent report from the Wall Street Journal. However, Iran's recent demands for reopening the Strait of Hormuz have complicated Trump's efforts to find an exit from the war. The administration has previously focused on restoring commercial traffic through the strategic waterway, but Iran has raised the bar, demanding substantial concessions in exchange for reopening the strait.

These demands include billions in US payments, withdrawal of American forces, lifting of the naval blockade, and payment of war reparations. Iran has also insisted on an end to US threats and military action against its regional allies. The situation has become increasingly challenging for Trump, who has expressed a desire to end the war but faces mounting domestic pressure and concerns over gasoline prices.

The White House claims US forces have achieved their military objectives, and Trump's focus has shifted to ensuring the free movement of energy through the Strait of Hormuz. However, Iran's frozen assets and potential oil sales on international markets continue to complicate the discussions. If Iran's nuclear program remains contained and commercial traffic resumes, Trump may extend the current ceasefire indefinitely, according to US officials.