Trump increasingly leaning toward resuming war with Iran: sources

Frustration with Iran's handling of talks aimed at ending the war has pushed President Donald Trump to a point where some of his aides now see him as more seriously considering a return to major military operations than in recent weeks, according to sources familiar with the discussions who spoke to CNN.

The president's patience is wearing thin over the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz and what he perceives as a split within Iran's leadership that prevents meaningful concessions on the nuclear file, the sources said.

Trump described the latest Iranian response as "completely unacceptable" and "stupid," leading multiple U.S. officials to question whether Tehran genuinely wants to negotiate in good faith.

Divergent Views Within the Administration

Conflicting currents exist inside the U.S. administration over the next move. Some officials, including Pentagon leaders, push for a more aggressive approach involving military strikes to weaken Tehran's position and force it to the negotiating table. Others insist on giving diplomacy one last chance.

Trump's inner circle is also demanding that Pakistani mediators deliver tougher, more direct messages to the Iranians.

According to the CNN report, some U.S. officials have long questioned whether Islamabad is conveying Trump's real anger as forcefully as he does publicly. Some believe Pakistan is painting a more optimistic picture of Iran's stance than reality warrants.

Regional Pressure and Timing

A senior regional official said Monday that intense pressure is coming from regional states and Pakistan on Iran, carrying a clear message that Trump has reached a stage of extreme anger and that this is the last chance to enter serious negotiations. So far, however, the official said, Tehran "doesn't listen and doesn't take anyone seriously."

The official added that the United States and Iran operate on "completely different time sensitivities," noting that Tehran has grown accustomed to enduring economic pressure for decades.

Trump met again Monday with his national security team at the White House to discuss future options. Sources indicate a major decision on the next step is unlikely before the president departs for China, scheduled for Tuesday afternoon.