U.S. President Donald Trump said Thursday he is seriously considering resuming large-scale military operations against Iran, which could include strikes larger than those carried out during 'Operation Maximum Pressure'.

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In a brief interview with Axios, Trump acknowledged that such a decision would have major repercussions, but he stressed that he has not yet made up his mind.

The U.S. president clarified that he has not set a timeline for making a decision, while two other U.S. officials confirmed that the White House has not yet issued any new orders to the military, and no final decision has been made on executing the operation.

This comes at a time when the current military escalation has pushed oil prices above $100 per barrel, while the prospect of returning to all-out war faces widespread opposition within the United States.

'Massive attack'

Trump said: 'I'm studying a massive attack, bigger than ever. I'm close to making a decision, and everything is ready.'

He added that Israel 'will join within two minutes if I ask them to,' but he clarified that the United States 'does not need any other party' to carry out a new military operation against Iran.

At the same time, he noted that Israel's participation in any attack would have 'consequences,' hinting at the possibility of it facing a direct Iranian response.

Stalled negotiations

Trump asserted that the Iranians 'want to negotiate,' but they 'are not ready to reach a deal at this time.'

He added: 'They haven't received enough pain yet.'

In contrast, two regional sources familiar with mediation efforts reported that the Iranian leadership has not yet agreed to the latest proposals put forward.

One of the sources said: 'We are trying, but the Iranians are not showing cooperation.'