WSJ: Trump Considered Resuming Full-Scale War with Iran to 'Finish the Job'

The internal deliberations within the Trump administration reveal a high-stakes debate over the future of the U.S. strategy toward the Islamic Republic. According to material reviewed by The Zioneer Intelligence Desk, President Trump held several discussions in recent days with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and General Dan Caine regarding the possibility of returning to all-out war. Some officials reportedly described this potential escalation as a way to "finish the job," moving beyond the current framework of reactive, precision strikes that have characterized the conflict since mid-June.

Despite the military preparations, the President expressed significant reservations to his aides. He reportedly believes that a new round of full-scale attacks could permanently damage Washington's prospects for achieving the ultimate goal: the verified dismantling of Iran's nuclear infrastructure. This calculation appears to be the primary driver behind the decision to remain at the negotiating table, even as the administration maintains its "negotiating through bombs" posture.

In a notable development, the President indicated he would be "comfortable" if negotiations extended beyond the previously set August 18 deadline (the 60-day target). This suggests a willingness to provide a broader diplomatic window, provided the current memorandum of understanding is not flagrantly violated. Government officials admitted that returning to full-scale war would essentially be an admission that the current diplomatic efforts have failed. For now, the White House remains satisfied with its policy of responding with precision strikes to specific Iranian violations while keeping the threat of a broad campaign as a central pillar of American leverage.