Trump: US Unlikely to Resume Strikes on Iran if Nuclear Talks Progress

President Donald Trump said the US is unlikely to resume military strikes against Iran if negotiations on the nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz make progress. He made the statement in a CNN interview on November 8. Trump said military action would depend on whether Iran signs a "really solid agreement," while warning he could deliver an extremely powerful blow if necessary. He cited Iran's economic collapse, including 301% inflation, as pressure forcing Tehran to accept US terms. He also claimed US forces have identified targets like power plants and bridges, with 38 bridges ready to be destroyed in an hour. Iran has not commented on the statements. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said talks paused due to the Democratic Party's midterm election victory, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio criticized Iran's demands as unacceptable and unrealistic. Iran's blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has raised US gasoline prices and fueled public discontent.