Trump Says Iran Strikes Unlikely With Strong Deal

President Donald Trump said renewed U.S. attacks on Iran were “highly unlikely” if negotiations produced a strong agreement on Tehran’s nuclear program and reopening the Strait of Hormuz, but warned U.S. forces were prepared to strike if needed. He said Washington had identified 38 bridges as potential targets, while claiming previous strikes and economic pressure had sharply weakened Iran’s military and economy. Trump had also said U.S. forces struck an Iranian air-defense installation near Qeshm Island, close to the Strait. Diplomatic efforts, including Qatari mediation, continue without a confirmed agreement; an Iranian nuclear proposal was reported to seek sanctions relief and an end to the U.S. naval blockade. Regional risks include shipping and energy disruptions, flight disruptions, and the reported tanker explosion that killed one crew member, while divisions among Gulf states complicate cooperation. Higher fuel costs and the war’s unpopularity have added domestic political pressure on Trump; Florida Governor-elect Byron Donalds predicted the conflict would end soon and fuel prices would fall.