CNN: Trump's Patience Is Wearing Thin — He’s Leaning Toward Renewed Military Action Against Iran

President Donald Trump is growing increasingly frustrated with negotiations with Iran, and in Washington the view is gaining ground that the military option is back at the center of decision-making. According to a CNN report this morning (Tuesday), Trump is considering "very seriously" a return to military action against Tehran, amid deep disappointment with how the Iranians have conducted themselves in the talks and their lack of willingness to meet U.S. demands.

Last night, News 12 reported that two American officials they spoke with said Trump is inclined to order a resumption of military activity against Iran in one form or another. Sources familiar with the details said Trump’s patience is wearing thin in light of the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, along with what he sees as internal divisions within Iran’s leadership that are preventing decisions and significant concessions in the nuclear talks.

Trump characterized the Iranian response to the proposal as "completely unacceptable" and "stupid," remarks that have heightened doubts within the U.S. administration about whether Tehran is in fact negotiating with the intent to reach agreements.

Inside the administration, there is no consensus on the next move. Some officials, including senior Pentagon figures, believe a tougher line is needed to increase pressure on Iran and force it back to a more flexible bargaining position. Under this view, even targeted strikes could be part of the approach. Others still argue the diplomatic track should be given a "fair chance," despite the challenges.

Another issue causing dissatisfaction around Trump concerns the role of Pakistani intermediaries. According to the sources, the White House expects a more direct and forceful approach toward the Iranians, while some senior officials doubt that Pakistan is conveying the American messages to Tehran in their full severity. Two of the sources even claimed that some believe Pakistan is presenting the United States with a more positive picture of Iran’s position than actually exists.

Two days ago, news agencies in the country reported that Tehran had rejected the American proposal to end the war. Iran’s state television said that accepting the proposal would have amounted to "surrender to Trump’s excessive demands." A senior Iranian official told the Tasnim news agency: "No one is drafting answers to please Trump. If Trump is unhappy with the response — that is naturally better. The president’s reply does not matter to us."