Trump says US could leave Iran now but wants lasting outcome

US President Donald Trump addressed reporters at the White House as he prepared to depart on Marine One. In a recent interview, Trump expressed his intention to end the US conflict with Iran, stating that the war could conclude "very soon." However, Trump emphasized his desire for a lasting outcome, claiming that Iran "will never have a nuclear weapon."

The President also mentioned that the US has imposed a blockade on the Strait of Hormuz, which he dubbed the "Trump Strait." This statement came amid reports from The New York Times that both US and Israeli militaries have devised plans for potential new strikes on Iran following the midterm elections. However, the Times noted that the likelihood of President Trump approving these strikes is uncertain, as he has previously blocked plans to resume major combat operations this year.

The US-Iran conflict began on February 28th, leading to retaliatory missile and drone attacks from Tehran, effectively blocking the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial global energy supply route. Furthermore, a memorandum of understanding signed in June through Pakistani and Qatari mediation has stalled due to disagreements, particularly regarding navigation in the strait.