US President Donald Trump has considered declaring victory against Iran without securing a nuclear deal, the Wall Street Journal reported Sunday, citing US officials.

Officials said Trump privately floated the idea to aides, suggesting he could extend the ceasefire “indefinitely” if Iran’s nuclear program remains contained and traffic resumes in the Strait of Hormuz. He reportedly told aides Tehran is “likely unable to revive its nuclear work” after Operation Midnight Hammer damaged Iran’s nuclear infrastructure in June 2025.

Trump believes US intelligence would detect any attempt to rebuild facilities or covertly develop a bomb, and that the threat of further strikes would serve as a deterrent. Officials added he may lift the US naval blockade if Tehran fully reopens the strait.

Trump may extend ceasefire ‘indefinitely’ if Hormuz traffic resumes

“The US has completed all of its military objectives against Iran,” a White House official told WSJ, adding Trump’s focus is securing global energy flows while keeping military options on table.

Analysts say Iran’s demands complicate prospects for a settlement. Mona Yacoubian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies noted Tehran’s hardline stance makes it difficult for Trump to find a face‑saving exit.

IRGC commander Mohammad Bagher Zolghadr said the strait will not reopen until the US “corrects its behavior”.

Trump, meanwhile, spoke optimistically at the White House Thursday: “I think it’s going to end pretty soon.”