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The United States carried out fresh “defensive” strikes against Iran on Wednesday, as President Donald Trump claimed Tehran is “running out of options” in ongoing negotiations and said upcoming midterm elections will not pressure him into a quick deal.
According to US officials, American forces intercepted and destroyed four Iranian one-way attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz, considering them a potential threat. The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said US troops also targeted a drone control site in Bandar Abbas that was preparing to launch another drone.
The latest military actions came as Trump expressed confidence during a Cabinet meeting that progress is being made toward ending the nearly three-month-long conflict, although negotiations remain uncertain.
The president is aiming for an agreement that would reopen the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz and allow him to claim that Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been significantly reduced. Such an outcome could help him justify ending a war that has faced political criticism at home.
However, the proposed deal leaves several key issues unresolved and has drawn criticism, even from some of Trump’s Republican allies. Critics argue that Iran’s leadership could emerge from the conflict weakened but still empowered.
With midterm elections approaching and concerns growing over rising fuel prices and living costs, some Republicans worry about the political impact. But Trump dismissed suggestions that the elections would influence his decisions.
“They thought they could wait me out because of the midterms,” Trump said. “I don’t care about the midterms.”
He acknowledged that negotiations are still ongoing but remained optimistic. “They want a deal badly,” he said. “We’re not satisfied yet, but we will be or we’ll have to finish the job.”
Earlier this week, the Pentagon confirmed similar “defensive” strikes targeting Iranian missile sites and boats suspected of laying naval mines. The US has said it is acting cautiously due to a fragile ceasefire that has been in place for weeks.
Republican concerns over deal terms
Despite Trump’s optimism, differences remain between Washington and Tehran on several major issues. Senior Republican lawmakers, including Senators Roger Wicker, Lindsey Graham and Ted Cruz, have expressed concern that the deal may be too favorable to Iran.
Some critics say the proposed agreement resembles the nuclear deal negotiated under former President Barack Obama a deal Trump had previously withdrawn from.
Under the current proposal, Iran would give up its stockpile of highly enriched uranium in exchange for relief from economic sanctions. Officials say details on how the uranium would be handled are still under discussion, with options including dilution or transfer to a third country.
However, Trump said he would not be comfortable with Russia or China taking control of Iran’s uranium stockpile.
According to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Iran currently possesses about 440.9 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, close to weapons-grade levels. Iran has not publicly agreed to surrender this material.
Uncertainty over Israel and Lebanon
Another unresolved issue is whether the ceasefire would include Israel’s ongoing military operations against Hezbollah in Lebanon. Iran has insisted that Lebanon be included in any agreement.
The US proposal appears to leave room for interpretation, supporting a broader ceasefire while also recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against immediate threats.
Clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters continue in southern Lebanon, with Israeli troops advancing further north.
Analysts warn that any sanctions relief could allow Iran to rebuild its military strength and support allied groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.
Push to expand Abraham Accords
Trump has also called for expanding the Abraham Accords — agreements aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and several Muslim-majority countries — to include nations such as Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar and Pakistan.
“We are strongly encouraging them to join,” Trump said.
However, experts say this goal may be difficult to achieve. Saudi Arabia, for example, has maintained that recognition of Israel depends on a clear path toward establishing a Palestinian state — something Israel currently opposes.
Trump raised the issue during recent talks with Middle Eastern leaders, though reactions reportedly varied. While some officials described the response as muted, others said certain allies showed interest in the proposal.