Trump is ready to end the war with Iran even without opening the Strait of Hormuz, according to the WSJ
U.S. President Donald Trump has told his aides that he is prepared to end the war against Iran, even if the Strait of Hormuz remains largely closed.
This was reported by The Wall Street Journal.
According to sources, in recent days Trump and his team have concluded that an attempt to fully restore shipping in the strait could drag the conflict beyond the initial plan, which was designed to last 4–6 weeks.
The White House has identified key objectives: weakening Iran’s naval fleet and missile capabilities, as well as winding down active combat operations with subsequent diplomatic pressure on Tehran to resume trade.
If this fails to yield results, the U.S. may shift the initiative to open the strait to allies in Europe and the Gulf states. At the same time, military options remain possible but are not a priority.
Analysts note that if the war ends without the strait being unblocked, Iran could strengthen its control over this strategic route, and a complex operation to open it would be postponed indefinitely.
As a reminder, U.S. President Donald Trump issued an ultimatum to Iran, promising to completely destroy power plants, oil wells, Kharg Island, and desalination plants if Tehran does not agree to a new deal in the near future.
In northern Israel, there was a new round of shelling from Iran and Hezbollah. Two people were wounded, one of whom is in serious condition. Several settlements in the north of the country were hit.
Israel has recorded an increase in attacks and pressure on Christians and church properties. Over the past year, there have been at least 155 incidents—ranging from verbal abuse to physical attacks. Researchers say the problem is becoming systemic and affecting the lives of entire communities.
In Haifa, a fire broke out at an oil refinery following a rocket attack by Iran and the Hezbollah group. The fire was captured on video, which was broadcast on Israeli television. It is currently unknown whether the rocket struck the facility directly.
The small island of Kharg is key to Iran’s economy. About 90% of all Iranian oil exports pass through it. Any strike on this location could drastically escalate the situation and affect not only Iran but also the global market.
Currently, the number of U.S. troops in the Middle East already exceeds 50,000, which is 10,000 more than usual. Typically, there are about 40,000 U.S. troops stationed at bases and aboard ships in the region—including Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Iraq, Syria, Jordan, Qatar, the UAE, and Kuwait.
The United States is stepping up pressure on Tehran, forcing the Iranian leadership to seek avenues for negotiations on Washington’s terms.
As a reminder, Trump stated that Iran had offered him the position of supreme leader.
Trump also mentioned the possibility of seizing Iranian oil and the island of Kharg.
