• Trump signals reluctance to strike civilian infrastructure in Iran, but maintains military pressure.
  • Comments come amid ongoing diplomatic tensions over the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear talks.
  • Markets eye potential supply disruptions as threats to energy chokepoints persist.

A Shift in Messaging?

President Donald Trump said he would rather avoid striking Iran's bridges and power plants, a notable nuance in his administration's hardline stance, during a Fox News interview Thursday. “I’d rather not hit bridges and power plants,” Trump said, though he reiterated that all options remain on the table if diplomatic efforts fail. The remarks suggest a potential recalibration in Washington's approach, as the administration continues to press Iran over its nuclear program and regional activities.

Diplomatic and Military Calculus

Trump’s comments come as U.S. and Iranian officials engage in indirect talks mediated by Oman, with the goal of reaching a broader deal to de-escalate tensions and reopen the Strait of Hormuz. However, the President’s threats to target critical infrastructure have drawn sharp condemnation from Tehran, which warns of severe retaliation. “Any attack on our civilian sites will be met with a decisive response,” a senior Iranian official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Analysts note that Trump’s seemingly conciliatory language on avoiding civilian harm may be aimed at reducing international backlash while keeping military leverage intact. “He’s playing a game of good cop, bad cop with himself,” said a former U.S. diplomat familiar with the negotiations. “The threat is still there, but he’s trying to frame it as a last resort.”

Economic Ripples

Global oil markets are closely watching the standoff, as any disruption to the Strait of Hormuz—through which about 20% of the world’s petroleum passes—could send crude prices soaring. Brent crude edged up 0.5% on Friday following Trump’s interview, as traders priced in persistent uncertainty. Shipping insurance premiums for Gulf routes have also risen, reflecting heightened risk.

Nader Habibi, an economist at Brandeis University, said targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure could have a “double-edged effect” on markets. “Strikes on refineries or export terminals could spike prices short-term, but if they’re limited and Iran doesn’t retaliate broadly, the impact may fade. The real wildcard is Tehran’s response.”

Political Reactions at Home

Domestically, Trump’s stance has divided lawmakers. Republican hawks praised the president’s toughness but urged him to maintain a credible threat. “We must be prepared to strike hard if negotiations fail,” said Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR). Meanwhile, Democrats warned against the human cost of any military action. “Bombing civilian infrastructure is a war crime, plain and simple,” said Representative Ro Khanna (D-CA).

Attempts to reach the White House for further clarification were not immediately returned.

Outlook

As talks continue in Muscat, the risk of miscalculation remains high. Iran has demanded a lifting of sanctions and guarantees against regime change, while the U.S. insists on verifiable limits to Tehran’s nuclear work and regional missile programs. Without a deal, both sides may edge closer to confrontation, with Trump’s words serving as both a warning and an olive branch.

Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly attributed a quote to a former diplomat. The comment was made by a current administration official who was not authorized to speak publicly.