CNN reports divisions inside Trump administration over Iran strategy
US President Donald Trump is giving more serious consideration to resuming combat operations against Iran than in previous weeks, according to a CNN report citing unnamed sources.
The report said Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and that Iran’s latest response to Washington’s proposal has raised doubts among US officials about Tehran’s willingness to negotiate seriously.
CNN reported that some officials within the Trump administration are advocating a more forceful strategy, including military strikes aimed at weakening Iran’s position.
Sources also said advisers close to Trump want Pakistan’s mediators to communicate more directly and firmly with Iranian officials, amid concerns that Islamabad has portrayed Tehran’s stance more positively than US officials believe is accurate.
According to the report, a final decision on Iran is unlikely before Trump departs for a planned visit to China.