Trump tells reporters renewed US strikes on Iran are unlikely
The president claims the war is militarily over while facing pressure from Republicans seeking to impeach his Defense Secretary.
By Leila Mansour ·
Donald Trump said on Monday that the United States is unlikely to launch new military attacks against Iran. Speaking from the White House press briefing room, the president described Iran as effectively over in a military sense. He stated that the current situation reflects a status quo maintained at the request of neighboring countries.
The president acknowledged that the US remains prepared to act if circumstances change. He described the military posture as locked and loaded, indicating readiness despite the recent lull in direct engagements.
This assessment follows a difficult week for the Republican Party. Trump hinted at de-escalation after midterm elections produced poor results for his party. Vice President JD Vance and other senior figures blamed the Iran conflict for the loss of key seats. In an interview with 60 Minutes aired on Sunday, Trump said he saw no reason to escalate the conflict at this time.
Iranian officials have previously expressed doubt about the president's claims of progress. Trump explained that he has not officially declared an end to the war because Gulf allies still face threats of Iranian aggression. He noted that a US naval blockade of Iranian ports helps protect these partners and secures the region.
Diplomatic efforts are underway to formalize a peace deal. Trump met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdul Rahman Al Thani in the Oval Office on Monday. The Qatari leader posted on social media that he held positive discussions with Trump and Vance regarding a path to regional peace. Mediators, including Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, have facilitated indirect talks since the war began in February following joint US-Israeli strikes.
Political pressure is mounting within the administration over the war's conduct. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie requested a House vote on Monday to impeach Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Trump called the effort a sham and supported his secretary, who said he is not worried about the threat. Democrats have indicated they will move to impeach Hegseth once they control both chambers of Congress in January.
