A recent report from the Jerusalem Post indicates that former U.S. President Donald Trump is contemplating a return to full-scale military conflict with Iran. However, he is currently hesitating in order to preserve ongoing nuclear disarmament negotiations. The potential escalation comes amid a fragile ceasefire established in April and ongoing diplomatic efforts to secure a preliminary agreement to reopen the Strait of Hormuz. The report suggests that Trump’s consideration of military action is influenced by concerns from Gulf leaders about potential Iranian retaliation targeting their oil infrastructure.
The prediction market focused on the possibility of Iran Reconstruction Funding being included in a US-Iran deal in 2026 has seen significant activity. Current market pricing suggests a decreased likelihood of such a deal, with YES probabilities having dropped from 44% to 37.5% over the past week. This movement reflects participant concerns about the potential resumption of hostilities disrupting diplomatic progress. Trump’s deliberations on military action appear to contribute to this sentiment, as further conflict could derail negotiations aimed at a comprehensive agreement.
The nuclear negotiations are closely watched by market participants, with specific focus on whether the U.S. and Iran will agree on terms that include uranium enrichment caps or a moratorium as part of a deal. The market’s current pricing of 41% YES for a uranium enrichment cap being part of a deal also reflects skepticism, with potential military escalation posing a threat to diplomatic successes.
