US President Donald Trump recently considered restarting large-scale military operations against Iran but has chosen to continue diplomatic efforts for now, according to a Wall Street Journal report published on Tuesday.
The newspaper cited US officials familiar with internal discussions about the administration’s next steps.
Trump Weighs Military Action Against Iran
The renewed diplomatic push follows months of conflict that have gradually eased into a fragile ceasefire.
However, tensions remain high, and the agreement could still collapse if either side launches further attacks.
Washington and Tehran have exchanged limited retaliatory strikes in recent days over alleged violations of their interim deal.
Despite those incidents, both governments have continued to express interest in negotiations aimed at reaching a wider settlement.
US Officials Discuss Full-Scale Strikes
According to the report, Trump held several discussions with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman General Dan Caine.
The talks reportedly covered a range of options, including a return to major military strikes and the continuation of negotiations.
Trump ultimately decided that another large campaign could damage efforts to secure a broader agreement with Iran.
Iran Nuclear Deal Remains a Priority
The president reportedly believes that renewed military action could derail negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program.
Washington is seeking an agreement that would dismantle or place strict limits on Tehran’s nuclear capabilities.
Trump is also reportedly willing to allow talks to continue beyond the current August 18 deadline, provided negotiators continue to make meaningful progress.
Limited Retaliation Preferred for Now
Rather than returning to a full-scale military campaign, Trump has favored smaller retaliatory strikes when Iran is accused of breaching the recently agreed memorandum of understanding.
US officials told the Journal that military action remains available if diplomatic talks fail.
However, the administration currently appears to prefer a more limited response while negotiations continue.
Witkoff and Kushner Travel to Doha
US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner arrived in Doha for another round of indirect talks with Iranian representatives.
Technical teams from both countries were also expected to continue discussions through mediators.
Qatar has played a central role in facilitating communication between Washington and Tehran.
Strait of Hormuz Fees Remain a Dispute
Several major disagreements continue to complicate the negotiations.
One key issue is Iran’s reported demand to charge fees to ships passing through the Strait of Hormuz.
The narrow waterway is one of the world’s most important routes for oil and gas shipments.
Any restrictions or additional costs could have significant consequences for global energy markets.
Nuclear Restrictions Also Divide Both Sides
The United States and Iran also remain divided over restrictions on Tehran’s nuclear program.
Washington is seeking tighter limits, while Iran has resisted measures it considers excessive or damaging to its national interests.
These disagreements remain central to the possibility of a lasting peace agreement.
Crisis Channel Aims to Prevent Escalation
The US has reportedly established a crisis communications channel between US Central Command and Iran’s Revolutionary Guard.
The purpose of the channel is to reduce the risk of misunderstandings or accidental escalation.
Such a mechanism could help both sides manage future incidents while diplomatic talks remain active.
Diplomacy Continues, but Military Option Remains
For now, the Trump administration appears committed to negotiations rather than another major military campaign.
However, US officials continue to view military action as a possible response if diplomacy breaks down or Iran violates the interim agreement.
The outcome of the Doha talks, disputes over the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations over Iran’s nuclear program will likely determine the next phase of US-Iran relations.
