US President Donald Trump has said the United States is continuing negotiations with Iran while maintaining that military options remain on the table, during remarks made on Tuesday (19 May) near a White House construction site for a proposed new ballroom.

He suggested that escalation was narrowly avoided, stating: “We were an hour away from making the decision to go today.” Trump added that military preparations were in place, saying: “The boats, the ships are all loaded… we’re all set to start.”

He also claimed Iranian officials were under pressure to reach an agreement, arguing: “They’re begging to make a deal.” However, he maintained uncertainty over next steps, warning: “I hope we don’t have to do the war, but we may have to give them another big hit.”

The remarks come amid ongoing tensions alongside continued diplomatic engagement.

ℹ️ The White House

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US President Donald Trump speaks to the press near the construction site of his proposed ballroom at the White House in Washington, DC, on May 19, 2026.  © Kent NISHIMURA / AFP
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Trump on Iran: ‘I hope we don’t have to do the war, but we may have to give them another big hit.’
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