Trump Weighs Iran Victory Without Nuclear Deal as Hormuz Reopening Remains Key
Updated
Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Aug 9
Trump Weighs Iran Victory Without Nuclear Deal as Hormuz Reopening Remains Key
3 articles · Updated · The Jerusalem Post · Aug 9
Summary
Trump has privately discussed declaring success against Iran without a nuclear deal if Tehran’s nuclear program stays contained and Strait of Hormuz traffic resumes, according to the Wall Street Journal.
June 2025’s Operation Midnight Hammer heavily damaged Iran’s nuclear infrastructure, and Trump has told aides US intelligence and the threat of renewed strikes could deter any rebuilding effort.
US officials expect Trump could extend the ceasefire indefinitely and lift the naval blockade on Iranian ports if Tehran fully reopens the strait, with energy flows now his main priority.
Iran is resisting that path: IRGC commander Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr said Friday the strait will not reopen until Washington meets six demands, including ending military pressure, lifting sanctions and releasing frozen assets.
Trump said Thursday the war could end soon and described the strait as “sort of open,” but analysts told WSJ Tehran believes he wants out and is using that leverage to press harder.