US President Donald Trump told Axios on Thursday that he faces a "big decision" on whether to significantly escalate military action against Iran.
"I have a big decision coming up," he said. "Do I want to go in and annihilate them, or do I not? It's a big decision. Anything could happen with me."
Trump also discussed his upcoming meeting with the leaders of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait and Oman on Tuesday, saying he wants to "find out where they are and how they are doing."
"We have been very protective of them," said Trump.
Trump: 'Not one ship' has reached Iran since start of US blockade
He further told Axios that "not one ship" has reached Iran since the start of the US naval blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, noting that the US is in direct contact with the regime, which he claimed still wants to make a deal.
Regarding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's upcoming visit to New York, Trump told Axios that he "may" meet with the Likud leader.