President Donald Trump has declared that the United States is not currently negotiating with Iran, warning that “something one way or the other” will happen “fairly soon” as tensions between Washington and Tehran remain high. Speaking to reporters on October 21, Trump suggested that a major development could come after the U.S. midterm elections on November 3, adding that many people expected events to unfold on that timeline. His remarks have intensified speculation about the next phase of the conflict, although he did not explicitly confirm that another military operation had been authorized. The comments follow a report by The New York Times that American and Israeli military officials have developed plans for possible renewed strikes against Iranian targets after the elections. According to the report, the potential targets could include energy infrastructure, nuclear-related facilities, and Iran’s missile and drone capabilities. However, the existence of reported military options does not mean that Trump has made a final decision to launch another round of attacks.

Trump’s latest statement also marks a shift in tone from his October 8 announcement, when he said Washington and Tehran were holding productive discussions and pledged that the United States would not attack Iran before the midterm elections. Diplomatic efforts have faced significant obstacles, including disagreements over Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions, and navigation through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Trump has argued that the United States has gained the upper hand militarily and economically, while insisting that any eventual outcome must deliver lasting results. Tehran, meanwhile, has continued to resist key American demands, leaving the prospects for a negotiated settlement uncertain. The president’s warning signals that Washington expects the confrontation to reach a new turning point, but the timing and nature of that development remain unclear. Until the administration announces a concrete decision, renewed U.S. or Israeli strikes remain a possibility rather than a confirmed operation.