Trump Signals Possible Escalation in Iran Conflict as Talks Stall

President Donald Trump signaled Thursday he is willing to escalate the conflict with Iran, claiming US forces have "knocked the hell out of them" and stating "we may go a little further," while reiterating his refusal to allow Iran to develop a nuclear weapon. The remarks come amid stalled diplomatic efforts and reports that the US and Israel are planning to resume attacks on Iran, with military operations potentially beginning before Israel's October 27 elections. A US official told Drop Site that CENTCOM is positioning assets for renewed major combat operations pending Trump's approval. US-Iran talks remain deadlocked, though discussions continue via mediators. Pakistan's army chief reportedly delivered a Trump ultimatum to Tehran, which responded that it will not compromise on its seven stated conditions regarding its nuclear program.