President Donald Trump has ordered his advisers to prepare for a prolonged siege of Iran aimed at crippling the regime’s economy and forcing it to capitulate on nuclear demands, the Wall Street Journal reported Wednesday.
According to the report, Trump decided in internal discussions to continue choking off Iran’s trade—particularly oil exports—by blocking shipping traffic to and from the country’s ports. In his view, the alternatives under consideration—resuming military strikes or completely backing away from the confrontation—carry greater risk.
Since the ceasefire began, Trump has left the door open to diplomatic contacts but continues to demand complete dismantlement of Iran’s nuclear program as a condition for any deal. White House officials estimate the siege is significantly damaging Iran’s economy and has even prompted Tehran to reach out about resuming talks.
At the same time, U.S. officials believe the current standoff may end without a nuclear agreement—but also without renewed fighting. Trump is receiving conflicting advice these days, according to the report: some senior administration officials and political allies are calling for continued pressure, while others warn of severe economic consequences from “further escalation.”