Report: Trump may hold off on Iran strikes if Tehran avoids new provocations

Recent reports suggest that President Donald Trump may refrain from attacking Iran unless the country or its allies in Yemen provoke the United States, according to three individuals familiar with the matter. Trump has vacillated between advocating for further escalations of the war and seeking a resolution, and there is no clear consensus on how to end the unpopular conflict, which he started in February.

However, in discussions with advisers and intelligence briefings, Trump has reportedly considered holding off on strikes and has expressed sympathy for regional allies who have requested him to avoid a full-scale war. Trump has discussed the matter with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan, both of whom have implored him to refrain from launching additional attacks on Iran.

Trump reportedly made no firm decision either way during these calls, but he did mention to bin Salman that he intended to target Iran after the elections. Saudi Arabia's Foreign Ministry declined to comment on the matter. Despite Trump's fluctuating stance, the US military remains prepared to escalate hostilities if necessary; a third aircraft carrier is being deployed to the region to augment the two currently present.

Although Trump could aim at Iran's underground nuclear facilities, it is uncertain whether further strikes would be effective given that they have already been targeted. Israeli officials have persistently advocated for another military campaign, but Trump has indicated that negotiations have achieved what they could and has yet to decide on resuming strikes.