Trump Softens Iran Stance After Midterm Defeat

President Donald Trump said he would rather not destroy what remains of Iran but acknowledged he may have to, softening his tone after the Republican Party's midterm election setback. He said a final decision on the war is imminent. Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, Trump said, "I would rather not destroy the rest of the country if possible, but maybe I'll have to," adding, "You'll know soon enough." He framed the choice as permanent, estimating Iran would need 25 years to rebuild. The remarks contrast with his earlier threats that American forces had not yet begun "destroying what's left" of Iran, with additional energy infrastructure and bridges still targeted. The shift follows the Republicans' midterm defeat.