Trump warns of further military action against Iran

US President Donald Trump issued a stern warning of potential military escalation against Iran while expressing a preference to avoid further destruction in the region.

Speaking to reporters at the Oval Office on Thursday, President Trump stated that Iran would not be permitted to advance its nuclear program without explicit approval from Washington. He remarked that while he prefers not to inflict further damage on the country, circumstances might force his hand, adding that updates on the matter would emerge soon.

The statements come amid mounting political pressure on the administration following the ruling Republican party's recent losses in the US midterm elections. Public discontent over the protracted eight-month conflict with Iran and rising energy prices contributed significantly to Democratic gains.

Prior to the elections, President Trump had repeatedly threatened renewed military strikes if Tehran failed to accept terms agreeable to Washington. Regional volatility has extended to the Red Sea, where ongoing attacks by Yemen-based Houthi forces and retaliatory measures by regional troops continue to complicate security.

Diplomatic engagement remains stalled despite recent attempts at communication through regional mediators. Tehran submitted a new nuclear proposal to Washington through Qatar, demanding the lifting of sanctions, the release of frozen assets abroad, and compensation for war damages as prerequisites for formal talks.

While the US administration reviews the proposal, military options remain on the table. Tensions remain elevated in strategic waters surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.

-SA