Washington: US President Donald Trump is reportedly reviewing fresh military options against Iran following his high-profile visit to China, with senior officials said to be preparing contingency plans in case diplomatic efforts fail to ease tensions in West Asia.
According to reports, Trump is considering whether to authorize a renewed round of military action if ongoing negotiations do not produce a breakthrough. Discussions within the Pentagon are said to include the possible revival of the earlier military campaign that was paused after last month’s ceasefire.
The development comes shortly after Trump concluded crucial talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing. The two leaders reportedly discussed Iran, regional stability and concerns surrounding the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil shipments.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One after leaving China, Trump dismissed Tehran’s latest proposal aimed at reducing tensions, saying he was unconvinced by its opening terms and would not accept a deal that failed to meet US expectations.
The Strait of Hormuz remains at the center of the crisis, with global powers pressing for its reopening to restore normal energy trade flows. The route is especially significant for China, which depends heavily on Gulf oil supplies.
Trump confirmed that Iran was a major topic during his discussions with Xi but clarified that he did not ask Beijing to pressure Tehran directly. He said both sides agreed that Iran should not be allowed to acquire nuclear weapons and that regional shipping lanes must remain accessible.
Meanwhile, military planning is reportedly intensifying behind closed doors. Reports suggest US and Israeli defence forces are conducting some of their largest coordinated preparations since the ceasefire, fuelling speculation that a new phase of military action could begin if diplomacy collapses.
Trump also praised Xi during his remarks, calling him a strong leader and saying their talks had produced a clear understanding on major strategic concerns, including Taiwan and Iran.
Taiwan reportedly emerged as another key issue during the Beijing discussions, with Xi said to have warned that growing tensions over the island could trigger serious confrontation between Washington and Beijing.
The renewed focus on Iran comes at a politically sensitive moment for Trump as he seeks to project strength on foreign policy while balancing diplomatic pressure, military readiness and domestic election considerations.
