Trump Says Destroying Iran Would Bring World Peace, Warns of Escalation

US President Donald Trump said destroying Iran would bring peace to the world, warning that he could intensify military operations rather than end the war if no agreement meets his demands.

Trump made any move toward ending the conflict conditional on reaching a deal he considers satisfactory. If that proves impossible, he said he may choose further military action.

He indicated that such an escalation could come after the congressional midterm elections scheduled for November, raising the possibility of a decision beyond that vote.

His comments presented escalation as an option rather than an announced decision. He did not specify in the remarks what terms would satisfy him or what an intensified campaign would involve.