New Delhi, March 24 -- Former diplomat Ashok Sajjanhar on Tuesday suggested that US President Donald Trump's recent statements likely signal a de-escalation in tensions, noting that the initial objectives of the campaign against Iran appear to be unmet.

Speaking on the shift in rhetoric, Sajjanhar said, "It is likely a sign of de-escalation because the expectations that Trump and Israel had when they started their campaign against Iran on February 28 do not seem to have been fulfilled. Trump may have come to realise this and also seen the growing challenges he faces domestically, including concerns about the economy, opposition to the attack on Iran, and the upcoming midterm elections in November."

He further highlighted the internal an...