Donald Trump says "Do we want to finish it off or just want to let it wither?" on Iran war

At the White House on Friday, President Donald Trump told reporters he was considering how to wind down the war with Iran, presenting a choice between seeking a near-term resolution and allowing the conflict to continue as a pressure campaign. The remarks followed U.S. envoy Tom Barrack’s statement that a strike could happen possibly during the coming weekend while Washington remained open to a negotiated settlement. They also came after the White House ruled out renewed attacks before the Nov. 3 midterm elections, though Trump has repeatedly threatened post-election strikes. The war is nearing nine months, has pushed gasoline prices to record highs, and Trump’s approval has fallen to about 31%; Republicans could lose both chambers of Congress.