Axios: US may face prolonged standoff with Iran, troop presence likely to continue

The United States may have to keep substantial forces in the region for an extended period amid concerns that the standoff with Iran could be prolonged, according to Axios, citing US officials.

They said the Trump administration fears Washington could become locked in a frozen confrontation with Tehran without either a renewed conflict or a diplomatic breakthrough.

In such a scenario, the United States would be forced to maintain a significant military presence in the region while continuing its maritime blockade of Iran.

Officials warned that neither a military nor a diplomatic resolution appears likely in the near term.

Instead, both sides are expected to closely monitor each other’s actions, anticipating either a strike or a lapse in vigilance.

One source described such an outcome as “the worst thing” for US President Donald Trump politically and economically, particularly ahead of the midterm elections scheduled for November 3, 2026.

Trump’s advisers told Axios that the president remains undecided between launching further strikes and waiting for the full impact of economic measures imposed on Iran, which could pressure Tehran into concessions, including on its nuclear program.

According to one adviser, Trump said “All [Iran's leaders] understand is bombs.”

The source described the president’s current stance as “frustrated but realistic.”

“He does not want to use force. But he's not backing down,” the adviser said.

Axios also reported that Trump discussed Iran’s proposal for a new round of talks with his national security team on Monday, but no decision was reached.

By Bakhtiyar Abbasov