On Friday, May 1, as the conflict moved into its third month — more than three weeks after a ceasefire— the US President Donald Trump indicated that Washington could still consider renewed military action against Iran, even as he claimed Tehran is keen to reach an agreement.
Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump said the negotiations are being handled by a very small group within his administration. “Nobody knows what the talks are except myself and a couple of other people,” he said, adding that Iran “wants to make a deal badly.”
Trump also said he would not oppose Iran playing matches in the United States during the upcoming FIFA World Cup. Responding to comments by Gianni Infantino, he said, “If Gianni said it, I’m okay… I think let ’em play.”
Despite ongoing backchannel diplomacy, Trump did not rule out escalation. “I don’t know that we need it… We might need it,” he said, leaving open the possibility of further conflict. He also expressed uncertainty about who is leading negotiations on Iran’s side.
Trump said recent US operations had significantly reduced Iran’s military strength, claiming its naval and air power had been largely dismantled, drone production curtailed, and its nuclear programme “obliterated.” However, he stopped short of calling the situation a formal war.
According to reports, the United States Central Command has drawn up plans for limited, targeted strikes on key Iranian sites to break the diplomatic impasse. Other proposals reportedly include securing parts of the Strait of Hormuz, potentially involving ground forces.
Iranian state media warned that continued U.S. naval pressure would trigger “unprecedented” retaliation. Officials accused Washington of maritime aggression and said any blockade in the Gulf would provoke a harsh response.
The United Arab Emirates has barred its citizens from travelling to Iran, Iraq, and Lebanon, citing rising regional tensions. Those already in these countries have been advised to return.
Air defence systems were briefly activated in Tehran following reports of drone and small aircraft activity. The situation stabilised within about 20 minutes, according to local media.
Israel carried out fresh airstrikes and artillery shelling in southern Lebanon despite a ceasefire. Defence Minister Yisrael Katz said the strikes targeted militant infrastructure near the border.
The U.S. Embassy in Beirut described a “historic opportunity” for Lebanon to reassert sovereignty, urging direct talks between President Joseph Aoun and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to stabilise the region and support reconstruction.
Trump also criticised lawmakers over attempts to curb his authority under the War Powers Resolution. Congress remains divided on when the 60-day deadline should begin—either from the start of hostilities or from formal notification.
