Frozen copy retrieved 2026-07-24T04:15:52Z for audit 2026-07-24T12-17-15Z. Original URL: https://www.axios.com/2026/07/23/trump-axios-iran-interview. The Stochastic Parrot does not host or redistribute; this snapshot exists solely so that quoted spans remain verifiable if the original page changes. Character offsets below index into this plain text; highlighted spans are the quotes cited in the audit.

Exclusive: Trump close to decision on massive attack on Iran

Axios · back to the audit

President Trump told Axios on Thursday that he is seriously considering restarting major combat operations in Iran, including strikes that would be bigger than the ones carried out during Operation Epic Fury. In a brief interview, Trump acknowledged that such a decision would have consequences and stressed he has not made a determination yet. Trump did not give a deadline for his decision. Two other US officials confirmed no call has been made and no new orders have been given to the military. The current escalation has caused oil prices to eclipse $100 per barrel. I am considering a massive attack. Bigger than ever before. I am close to making a decision. We are all set for it, the president said. Trump said Israel would join in two minutes if I ask them to, but added that we do not need anybody to launch a new operation against Iran. He also said there would be consequences for Israel joining the strikes. The big picture: Trump said the Iranians want to negotiate but are not ready to make a deal at the moment. They have not received enough pain yet, he said.