Sources said at a recent Oval Office meeting Trump denounced Iranian leaders as
'scum' and 'madmen' and used profanity, saying he is frustrated as the campaign
enters its fifth month after expecting a weeks‑long conflict. Advisers say the
war has contributed to higher prices, lower approval ratings and the deaths of
more than a dozen U.S. service members; they worry it is consuming his
presidency and weakening Republican prospects ahead of the midterms. Sources say
Trump believes Tehran only understands force and is in 'retaliation mode,' and
sees few viable options beyond continued strikes.
