US officials cite economy, voter support in Trump push to end Iran war

WASHINGTON, United States — WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump moved to end the conflict with Iran as quickly as possible because of concerns about the war's impact on the global economy and a desire to protect his standing with voters, according to U.S. administration sources. CNN reported that in early June, Trump and his advisers decided to work toward a framework deal with Tehran that would cover the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and general principles for Iran's nuclear program. Most senior officials backed ending the war, the network said, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent highlighting the economic impact and Energy Secretary Chris Wright pointing to pressure on global energy markets. CIA Director John Ratcliffe and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth were described as the most cautious about Iran's willingness to abide by any settlement. The disclosures came days after Iran and the United States signed a remotely concluded memorandum that ended the military conflict that began on Feb. 28, lifted the maritime blockade on Iranian ports and restored navigation through the Strait of Hormuz. Vice President JD Vance said the blockade on Iranian ports had effectively been lifted following the agreement and that more than 12 million barrels of oil had transited the Strait of Hormuz since it was signed.