Trump: decision on Iran 'very soon' and describes its economy as collapsed

President Donald Trump said on Tuesday, speaking to reporters outside the White House, that the administration will make a decision on Iran "very soon," without specifying its nature or whether it would take a diplomatic route or other measures.

Trump described Iran as a "failed state" and said it has "no real economy," pointing to inflation estimated at 300 percent, and claimed that Iranian authorities "do not pay their forces' salaries and do not pay anyone."

The president also said Washington controls the Strait of Hormuz, noting that large quantities of oil pass through this vital waterway.

Trump's remarks come as indirect contacts between Washington and Tehran remain stalled over reopening the Strait of Hormuz and broader maritime security arrangements and nuclear issues, with regional intermediaries reportedly conveying messages between the two sides, and with no announcement of a final agreement or clear timetable.

Trump did not set a precise deadline for the expected decision and repeated that it was "very soon," at a time when analysts are watching to see whether the administration will unveil a new political or economic step. Earlier statements by the president had hinted that launching new attacks on Iran is possible, leaving the options open for any future announcement.

Any new US decision is expected to affect energy markets and navigation security in the Gulf, amid ongoing regional tension and the overlap of Strait-related issues, sanctions and indirect negotiations, while regional actors await what Washington will announce in the coming days.