Iran Showing Greater Willingness to Engage, But No Decision Yet on 'Massive Attack': Trump

US President Donald Trump has said Iran appears to be taking negotiations with Washington more seriously, but stressed that he has not yet decided whether to authorise what he described as a "massive attack" against the country, leaving both diplomacy and military action on the table. Speaking to reporters at the White House on Friday, Trump said discussions between the United States and Iran are continuing, adding that Tehran's approach has changed in recent days. However, he cautioned that the ongoing talks should not be interpreted as a sign that an agreement is imminent.

"I think they're getting more serious," Trump said, while adding, "We'll see what happens." The remarks come amid growing tensions across the Middle East, where the United States has maintained a heightened military presence while continuing diplomatic efforts to prevent the conflict from escalating further. Trump indicated that although military plans are under active consideration, he has not given final approval for a large-scale operation against Iran.

According to reports, the US military remains prepared for a potential strike if negotiations collapse or security conditions deteriorate. At the same time, the administration has continued to pursue backchannel and direct discussions aimed at reducing hostilities and reaching a diplomatic breakthrough.

The latest comments follow several weeks of heightened regional instability, including attacks linked to Iran-backed groups, concerns over maritime security in the Gulf, and fears of a wider conflict involving US allies. Analysts say any major military action could have significant geopolitical and economic consequences, particularly for global energy markets and international shipping routes.

Trump has repeatedly maintained that while the United States is prepared to respond militarily if necessary, his administration would still prefer a negotiated solution if Iran demonstrates a genuine willingness to compromise. Washington's strategy appears to combine sustained diplomatic engagement with a clear military deterrent. Whether the current talks evolve into a formal agreement or give way to further confrontation is expected to depend on the outcome of the next round of negotiations and developments on the ground.