On Thursday, President Trump expressed confidence that Iran would abandon its nuclear pursuits, indicating that the current ceasefire might not need extending. He mentioned that a deal is “very close” and hinted at possibly visiting Pakistan if an agreement is finalized.
While speaking outside the White House, Trump noted that after weeks of intense military pressure and a comprehensive U.S. blockade, Iran had shown willingness to adhere to the U.S. demand of never obtaining nuclear weapons.
“We needed to ensure Iran never had a nuclear weapon,” he stated, adding, “They totally agreed to that. They agreed to almost everything.”
He highlighted how Iran’s current position is different from their behavior before the U.S.-Israel conflict, suggesting a more conciliatory approach from Iran.
“They’re prepared to do things now that they weren’t two months ago,” Trump remarked.
Additionally, the President dismissed ideas for time constraints on Iran’s nuclear program, clarifying that the discussions are not about a temporary pause.
“There is no 20-year limit,” Trump insisted. He explained that the U.S. has received a “very strong statement” assuring that Iran would not develop nuclear weapons “for more than 20 years.”
Trump also mentioned Iran’s agreement to eliminate its enriched uranium reserves, which he attributed to materials buried following U.S. strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
“They agreed to return nuclear dust to us,” he explained. “Because of the attacks we carried out, they went underground.”
“We have many agreements with Iran,” he said, expressing optimism that “something very positive will happen.”
It’s worth noting that Iran has not officially confirmed Trump’s statements.
Trump attributed the changes in Iran’s stance to the U.S. blockade of its ports initiated earlier that week, emphasizing that the pressure tactics are steering Iran toward a potential deal.
He said, “The lockdown is unbelievable. They’re not doing any work.” Furthermore, he added that “things are looking very solid” as negotiations continue.
The President proclaimed the U.S. is “very close” to securing a deal and that further discussions might happen soon.
Pakistan, which acts as a mediator between the U.S. and Iran, is expected to host the upcoming talks.
Trump stated he would consider visiting Pakistan if an agreement is finalized. “If a contract is signed in Islamabad, I might go. They want me,” he stated.
The ceasefire, established last Tuesday, is set to end next week, however, Trump suggested that an extension may not be necessary.
“I don’t know if we need to extend it,” he said. “Iran wants a deal and we are dealing with Iran on a very friendly basis.”
At the same time, Trump emphasized that the outcome hinges on reaching an agreement.
“Maybe we can make a little deal, but I don’t want to do that,” Trump said. “I want to get it done.”
He also cautioned that if negotiations falter, hostilities could resume. “If there is no deal, fighting will resume,” Trump warned.
