The Atlantic: Trump "bored" with Iran war

U.S. President Donald Trump has grown “bored” with the war involving Iran and is increasingly eager to bring the conflict to an end, according to a report by The Atlantic citing an outside adviser who regularly speaks with the president.

The report said Trump has repeatedly signaled a desire to move away from the conflict, declaring victory on multiple occasions, including after Iran briefly reopened the Strait of Hormuz around three weeks ago. Although the president has issued strong warnings about potentially resuming military action, he has repeatedly extended ceasefire deadlines rather than following through on threats of renewed hostilities. The Trump administration this week also abandoned plans to escort commercial vessels through the Strait of Hormuz, partly over concerns the move could trigger escalating clashes.

The Atlantic said Trump has become frustrated with a war that has lasted longer and proven more complicated than he initially expected. It added that the president is also facing political pressure at home, with Republicans closely monitoring rising fuel prices and declining poll numbers.

The Atlantic noted that Trump does not want the conflict to resemble the prolonged Middle East wars that overshadowed previous U.S. administrations. The president is also said to be focused on avoiding instability ahead of a high-profile summit in China next week, where he is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping.

By Sabina Mammadli