President Donald Trump said on Friday that the United States is holding talks with Iranian officials as his administration looks at both diplomacy and military options during the ongoing conflict with Iran. His comments marked a change in tone after several days of stronger warnings about possible military action.
Speaking to reporters at the White House, Trump repeatedly said that US representatives are in contact with Iran. During a 38-minute appearance, he mentioned ongoing discussions several times and suggested that negotiations remain an important part of his strategy. The comments came after earlier statements that raised the possibility of expanding military operations.
Trump said the United States has two possible paths. One is to continue military action, while the other is to reach a diplomatic agreement. He said negotiations could provide a smarter solution if both sides are willing to reach a deal. At the same time, he stressed that the US military remains prepared if diplomacy fails.
The latest remarks reflect a pattern seen throughout the conflict. Since military operations began several months ago, Trump has moved between applying military pressure and promoting diplomatic talks. His administration has continued to say that all options remain available while seeking a possible political solution.
Last month, Trump and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian signed a memorandum of understanding designed to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and create a path toward discussions on Iran’s nuclear program. The agreement was viewed as an early step toward easing tensions. However, negotiations later stalled, and the situation quickly became more difficult.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most important shipping routes. A large share of global oil exports passes through the narrow waterway each day. Disruptions in the area have increased concerns about energy supplies and global trade.
Iran has continued to use its position near the strait as leverage during the conflict. Although Iranian military facilities have faced repeated airstrikes, the country’s leadership has continued to show its ability to influence regional security. Analysts say even limited attacks on shipping routes can affect global energy markets.
The conflict has also spread beyond the Persian Gulf. This week, the Iran-backed Houthi group announced plans to expand attacks on commercial shipping in the Red Sea. The development has increased pressure on regional shipping routes and raised new concerns for international trade.
Oil prices reacted quickly to the growing tensions. Crude oil prices climbed above $100 per barrel before easing slightly to around $96 on Friday. Even after the drop, prices remain much higher than they were earlier this year, reflecting continued uncertainty in global markets.
Despite the military pressure, Trump argued that Iran is facing increasing challenges. He said Iranian leaders are becoming more willing to negotiate as military operations continue. According to Trump, ongoing pressure could encourage Tehran to return to meaningful discussions.
At the same time, Trump repeated that the United States remains fully prepared for stronger military action if necessary. He said American forces are ready to respond if negotiations fail to produce results. His comments followed earlier reports in which he said he was considering a much larger military operation.
When asked about those earlier remarks, Trump again shifted attention toward diplomacy. He emphasized that communication between US and Iranian officials is continuing and suggested that negotiations remain active despite the fighting.
The conflict has also affected American forces in the region. Iranian attacks on US targets have killed four American service members during the past two weeks. Earlier this week, Trump attended a dignified transfer ceremony at Dover Air Force Base to honor those who lost their lives.
There is still no clear timeline for when the conflict could end. Earlier in the year, Trump suggested military operations might last only a few weeks. On Friday, he acknowledged that the conflict could continue much longer and even remain active during the upcoming midterm election period.
Trump said his priority is reaching the right outcome rather than focusing on political deadlines. He added that the administration will continue making decisions based on national security and the progress of diplomatic efforts.
The coming weeks are expected to be important as Washington balances negotiations with military readiness. Governments and global markets will closely watch whether diplomacy can reduce tensions or whether the conflict moves toward another stage of escalation.
