Symbolic imageTrump says Iran decision is near as US strike options are readied
Trump said on Sunday there would be no strike that day, but that he must choose between a deal and finishing Iran off. Iran says it downed a US drone.
Trump told Fox News on Sunday, 25 October: "Do I finish it off, which would be very easy to do, or do I make a deal?" He ruled out a strike that day after envoy Tom Barrack said one was "absolutely" possible this weekend, but did not exclude later action. Breitbart, citing The Hill and the New York Times, reports that US Central Command has prepared options, including energy infrastructure, which Trump has not authorized. The Jerusalem Post cites officials who expect a final decision after the 3 November midterms.
Iran claims drone, threatens Gulf
Iran's army said it shot down a US LUCAS drone over Bandar Abbas, according to ISNA via Telesur. The Wall Street Journal, via the Jerusalem Post, reports that Tehran threatens gas pipelines, airports and other civilian targets in the Gulf if attacked. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned in the Financial Times of risks to civilians and the global economy.
Netanyahu and army chief reported at odds
N12 reported on Sunday that IDF chief Eyal Zamir sought formal authorization for an action ordered by the political echelon that officials said would trigger rapid escalation with Iran, fearing electoral motives. Netanyahu denied it: "there is no confrontation."
Other opinions
Telesur, which calls the US military "terrorist", says Pakistani and Qatari mediation shows no prospect of a deal.