Trump says Iran strike may be unnecessary as US stays 'locked and loaded'

President Donald Trump said Monday that further military action against Iran may not be necessary, but the US remains "locked and loaded" if circumstances change, following a conversation with Qatar's prime minister. Trump described the ongoing US naval blockade against Iran as the "greatest naval blockade in the history of our country," stating it has had a "very devastating effect" and that Iran is "militarily, effectively over." He reiterated that Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon, calling it non-negotiable, while noting he gives no guarantees about future strikes. The war began February 28 with US-Israeli strikes, with Qatar mediating and the US maintaining the blockade through Operation Iron Gate. Marine traffic through the Strait of Hormuz remains about 65% below pre-conflict levels, though Trump's tone suggests renewed strikes remain possible if talks stall.