Trump says he is not looking to escalate war with Iran after election losses
The US president told CBS that voters disliked the conflict and rising fuel prices, while his top diplomat called ongoing peace talks unproductive.
By Olga Menon ·
President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that he is not seeking to escalate the conflict with Iran, marking his first television appearance since his party lost its congressional majority in the recent elections.
In an interview with CBS's '60 Minutes' correspondent Ross Douthat, Trump acknowledged that voters disliked the war and the increase in gasoline prices. He also noted a significant level of discontent among the public regarding Israel, which launched the offensive alongside the United States.
"I am not looking to escalate. I do not think there is any reason to do that," Trump said. He added that he is not at odds with Vice President JD Vance, who previously attributed the Republican defeat to the war.
Despite the electoral setback, Trump maintained that he would make the same decision again. He argued that he must do what is best for the country and prevent Iran from possessing a nuclear weapon. "My answer is an emphatic yes," he said, adding that while the decision may not be good for the immediate future, it will likely be viewed as a good one historically.
The diplomatic stance presented a mixed picture on the same day. Secretary of State Marco Rubio told reporters that negotiations with Tehran to end the war have not been productive because the Islamic Republic has made unacceptable demands. Trump separately told CNN that a resumption of large-scale attacks is very unlikely if there are advances in nuclear talks and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The war has entered a stalemate eight months after the US and Israel began their offensive. There have been no major military operations or progress in peace negotiations. Meanwhile, Iranian forces continue to target ships moving through the Strait of Hormuz.
