With the Israel-Iran war now in its fifth day, US President Donald Trump has said he does not want just a temporary stop in fighting. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “We’re looking at better than a ceasefire.” He later explained what he meant, saying, “A real end. Not a ceasefire. An end,” as quoted by the BBC.

Trump’s words come as fears grow around the world about the possibility of a much larger war. So far, hundreds of people have died in Iran and Israel, and oil prices have been badly affected.

When asked about the US role and its help to Israel, Trump said, “Right now, we’re doing pretty well. Remember, Iran cannot have a nuclear weapon.”

US could send top officials to talk to Iran

The US president may also send some top American officials to talk to Iran. According to a Reuters report, he is considering sending Vice President JD Vance or Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff for diplomatic talks.

Trump also seemed to hint that Israel would not stop its attacks soon. “You’re going to find out over the next two days. You’re going to find out. Nobody’s slowed up so far,” he told a CBS reporter.

Though Trump left the G7 Summit early and flew back to Washington, he denied that it had anything to do with ceasefire talks. French President Emmanuel Macron had earlier said that the US had proposed a ceasefire, but Trump rejected that claim. On Truth Social, Trump wrote, “Wrong! He has no idea why I am now on my way to Washington, but it certainly has nothing to do with a ceasefire. Much bigger than that.”

A Politico report also said that Trump is demanding a full stop to Iran’s nuclear plans. “Simply stated, IRAN CAN NOT HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON. I said it over and over again! Everyone should immediately evacuate Tehran!” Trump said on Monday.

Fighting continues; more deaths reported

Meanwhile, Iran launched fresh missile and drone attacks on Israeli cities. Iranian media reported explosions and air defence systems in action across Tehran and Natanz. In Kashan, Israeli strikes killed three people and injured four others.

Israel said it had killed Iran’s wartime chief of staff and targeted missile and weapons sites. Iran reported 224 deaths, mostly civilians. Israel reported 24 civilian deaths so far.

Tehran has asked Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia to help convince the US to stop Israel’s attacks. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi posted on X, “If President Trump is genuine about diplomacy and interested in stopping this war, next steps are consequential. Israel must halt its aggression, and absent a total cessation of military aggression against us, our responses will continue.”

China has now advised its citizens to leave Israel as the fighting continues and Israeli airspace remains closed.

You might also be interested in: 80-year-old woman raped, robbed during evening walk in Tamil Nadu.