Trump opts for economic pressure over war or deal with Iran

US Senator Marco Rubio informed his G7 counterparts during their meeting in Paris that President Donald Trump has chosen to continue applying economic pressure on Iran in an effort to choke its regime, rather than returning to war or seeking a new deal. This strategy, which is supported by several senior members of his administration, has raised concerns among Washington's regional allies about the potential consequences of prolonging such measures.

According to the Axios website, there are worries about the impact of this strategy on Iran. Some US allies are concerned that extended pressure could force them to halt trade with Tehran, including suspending flights and closing borders, which could worsen economic and security instability in their own countries.

Citing three people who attended the G7 foreign ministers' meeting in Paris on Tuesday, the network reported that Rubio said Trump had considered two options: returning to war or striking a deal, but ultimately decided to maintain the current approach of economic pressure.

In public remarks after the Paris meetings, Rubio defended this approach, saying that economic sanctions and the maritime blockade are causing increasing damage to Iran's economy, and that Washington does not need to launch large-scale military operations as long as its objectives are being achieved through economic means.

He added that pressure is mounting over time, noting that Iran's ability to sell oil on global markets is facing unprecedented restrictions, in his assessment.

It is noteworthy that President Donald Trump stated on Monday that the war with Iran is "effectively over militarily," pointing to progress in efforts to reach a long-term agreement on Iran's nuclear program, but affirmed that the United States is prepared to resume military operations if circumstances change.