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Trump signals further US strikes on Iran are improbable, but keeps forces ready
Developed over time first seen 1 day ago
Donald Trump has said renewed US attacks on Iran are “highly unlikely”, while warning that US forces remain ready if circumstances change. He described Iran’s military as “effectively over” and pointed to progress in negotiations, but did not declare the war over, citing the need to protect Gulf allies.
Trump spoke after meeting Qatar’s prime minister, a mediator in efforts to end the conflict, who also described discussions as positive. The war began with joint US-Israeli strikes in February, and Iranian attacks have hit Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Brent crude fell by more than 1% to $91.50 a barrel after Trump’s remarks; meanwhile, Republican Thomas Massie is seeking a House vote to impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, though the effort is unlikely to succeed while Republicans control Congress.
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In short
- Trump says further US strikes on Iran are highly unlikely.
- US forces remain ready if circumstances change.
- Qatar is pursuing peace talks as oil prices fall.
How this story developed
- 23 hours ago Trump added that Iran was militarily defeated and negotiations had momentum; the conflict was also becoming a Republican political liability after poor midterm results.
- 23 hours ago Donald Trump said further US strikes on Iran were highly unlikely but kept forces on alert, while Qatar’s prime minister described peace talks as positive and oil prices fell.
Where outlets differ
Left-leaning outlets 1
Only here: hits, five, times, bigger, previous
Centre outlets 1
Only here: signals, strikes, improbable, keeps, forces
Every side used: trump, iran
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Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Those favouring continued US military readiness could argue that Iran’s attacks on Gulf states and the risk to regional allies make a formal end to the war premature. Keeping the option of further action may deter renewed Iranian attacks and give negotiators leverage to secure a durable agreement.
The case against
Those favouring restraint could argue that Trump’s own description of further attacks as highly unlikely, alongside positive signals from negotiations, supports prioritising diplomacy and avoiding renewed strikes. Continuing a war that has caused regional harm and become politically costly could deepen instability, while a clear end to hostilities would reduce uncertainty for allies and civilians.
Explained simply
The conflict began in February, when the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran. Iran has since attacked Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, widening the risks beyond the countries directly at war.
Qatar’s prime minister is among those involved in efforts to mediate between the sides. The conflict also has consequences in US domestic politics: Republicans faced poor midterm results, and Congressman Thomas Massie is seeking a vote to impeach Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, though Republicans control Congress.
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Originally published by BBC World as “Trump says more US attacks on Iran ‘highly unlikely’”.