(Web Desk) – US President Donald Trump has privately told his aides that he does not intend to end the ceasefire with Iran unless Tehran directly kills American troops, according to a report published by The Wall Street Journal on Wednesday, citing US officials.
According to the report, Trump’s approach signals a reluctance to escalate the conflict into a broader regional war, suggesting that the US president may be prepared to tolerate limited incidents and tensions for an extended period rather than risk a large-scale confrontation in the Middle East.
The development comes amid renewed tensions between Washington and Tehran. In recent days, both sides have exchanged some of the most serious hostilities since a ceasefire came into effect in early April. Iran launched missiles and drones targeting US military sites in the region as well as Kuwait International Airport, with reports indicating that one person was killed in the attacks.
The ongoing dispute over the Strait of Hormuz has also intensified concerns in global markets, disrupting energy supplies and international shipping activity. Tehran has imposed restrictions on commercial traffic through the strategic waterway, while Washington has maintained pressure through measures targeting Iranian ports.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the latest military exchanges as defensive responses rather than indications of a return to full-scale war.
“They are happening in response to an Iranian action,” Rubio told a House hearing on Wednesday. “If they don’t shoot at those ships, we don’t shoot, but we have to respond.”
However, the Wall Street Journal report noted that repeated exchanges of attacks have increased pressure on the Trump administration and raised questions about whether the ceasefire can remain sustainable in the long term.
Trump has repeatedly expressed optimism about reaching a broader agreement with Iran, saying that negotiations are close to delivering a deal aimed at permanently ending the conflict, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, addressing Iran’s nuclear activities and resolving issues surrounding its stockpile of enriched uranium.
Pakistan urges full ceasefire compliance
Meanwhile, Pakistan expressed hope that all parties would fully implement the ceasefire agreement and ensure that it remains in effect.
A Foreign Office spokesperson said continued ceasefire violations and renewed clashes remain significant hurdles to achieving a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Highlighting the importance of diplomatic efforts, the spokesperson said Pakistan, acting as a facilitator and mediator, would remain committed despite the challenges and continue to maintain communication channels with all relevant parties.