Washington, Oct 26:
US President Donald Trump is weighing whether to pursue a negotiated settlement with Iran or resume military strikes, as tensions in the Middle East rise and concerns grow over threats to commercial shipping near the Strait of Hormuz.
In an interview with Fox Newsâ *Sunday Morning Futures*, Trump said he faced a choice between reaching a deal and taking further military action. He indicated that a decision was approaching but ruled out an immediate strike on Sunday. He has also suggested that military action could resume after the US midterm elections scheduled for November 3.
Washington has reportedly deployed additional military assets to the region, including a third aircraft carrier group, while reducing diplomatic and military personnel in parts of the Middle East amid rising security concerns. Iran, meanwhile, is preparing for the possibility of renewed US attacks and is considering potential retaliation across the region, according to reports citing people familiar with Tehranâs thinking.
The Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global energy shipments, has become a major source of concern. Maritime security officials have reported increasingly frequent and damaging attacks on vessels in and around the waterway. Any prolonged disruption could affect oil supplies, shipping costs and international trade.
Iran-backed Houthi militants have also contributed to regional security concerns, while Saudi Arabia has faced threats to infrastructure and transport links. The wider situation has raised fears that renewed military action could expand into a broader regional conflict.
Diplomatic efforts to prevent another escalation are continuing, with Qatar among the countries seeking to facilitate dialogue. A negotiated settlement remains one possible route to ending the confrontation, but the threat of further strikes has added uncertainty. The approaching US midterm elections and political developments in the region could further complicate efforts to secure a lasting agreement.