Trump says Iran war at "status quo," tells 60 Minutes there's no reason to escalate conflict

As of November 9, 2026, President Donald Trump stated that renewed U.S. military strikes against Iran are "highly unlikely" and not currently necessary if ongoing negotiations progress satisfactorily. On Sunday, November 8, Trump told CNN that talks would determine whether further action is required to address Iran's nuclear program and ensure the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. However, in a tweet on November 9, he also announced the activation of Task Force Iron Gate, aimed at restricting trade through Iran’s land borders and the Caspian Sea.

Meanwhile, Iran warned that it would "rain down hell" if the U.S. escalates military action again, with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi threatening renewed hostilities unless Washington complies with Tehran's demands, including ending all fronts of war. This comes in the context of a recent Republican Party defeat in midterm elections, which has heightened tensions and changed dynamics in negotiations between the two nations.

The situation is complex, as both sides are now using political developments to leverage negotiations towards peace or further military actions.