US President Donald Trump stated on 24 October 2026 that the United States could launch another military operation against Iran if Tehran does not agree to a deal. Speaking from Washington, the President indicated that the potential for further conflict remains contingent on the outcome of future diplomatic efforts.
President Trump outlined his expectations for the Iranian government regarding a possible settlement. "If they're smart, they will just say, ‘Let's get down to business,’" the President said, suggesting that Iranian leaders should engage in negotiations to reach a formal agreement.
Despite proposing these talks, President Trump expressed skepticism regarding the willingness of Iranian officials to participate in such discussions. He linked the prospect of future military action directly to this uncertainty. "We may do another little Operation Epic Fury, or they will agree," he stated.
The President’s remarks, delivered during a press briefing in Washington, showed a firm stance on the current diplomatic impasse. US President Donald Trump stated that the United States could launch another military operation against Iran if Tehran does not agree to a deal, noting that the window for a peaceful resolution is tied specifically to the actions of the Iranian government. By emphasizing the necessity of a formal agreement, the President sought to clarify the conditions under which the United States would refrain from further military engagement.
Trump suggested that Iranian leaders should engage in negotiations to reach a settlement. This proposal for direct dialogue is presented by the administration as the primary path to avoiding the escalation of hostilities. The President maintained that the responsibility for de-escalation rests with the leadership in Tehran, urging them to prioritize a negotiated settlement over continued defiance.
However, the outlook for such a diplomatic breakthrough remains uncertain. Trump expressed doubt that Iranian leaders would be willing to reach an agreement. This assessment of the current political climate reflects the President's belief that the Iranian administration may not be prepared to make the compromises necessary for a deal. Because of this perceived reluctance, the President has kept the option of military force on the table as a strategic alternative.
The mention of "Operation Epic Fury" serves as a specific reference point for the type of military engagement the United States might pursue. By explicitly linking the possibility of such an operation to the failure of diplomatic outreach, the President is placing the burden of choice directly on the Iranian government. The rhetoric from Washington suggests that the United States expects a clear commitment to negotiations in the immediate future.
As of 24 October 2026, no formal response from Tehran has been reported. The President’s public comments serve as a final warning regarding the potential consequences of failing to enter into talks. Washington continues to monitor the situation, maintaining that the United States is prepared to act if the Iranian government refuses to pursue a settlement. The President concluded his statement by reiterating that the United States remains open to a deal, provided that the Iranian leadership demonstrates a genuine willingness to engage in substantive discussions to resolve the existing tensions.
