US President Donald Trump says a peace agreement with Iran is within reach but warns military action remains an option if negotiations fail…reports Asian Lite News Desk
US President Donald Trump has said a potential peace agreement with Iran is drawing closer, while warning that military action remains an option if negotiations fail.
In an interview with Fox News, Trump expressed confidence that talks were progressing in the right direction and said any final agreement must include a guarantee that Iran will not develop nuclear weapons.
“We are making a great deal; otherwise we’ll just go back and finish it off militarily. We’re close to a very good deal, and if we can make it good, otherwise we just start up with the Department of War,” Trump said.
The US President said preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remained his central condition for any settlement and claimed Tehran had already agreed to that principle.
“The one guarantee that I have is that there will be no nuclear weapons. They’ve agreed to that,” Trump said.
Trump also suggested that a successful agreement could lead to the immediate reopening of the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz, a key global energy route that has been at the centre of tensions during the conflict.
While emphasising his preference for diplomacy, Trump made clear that Washington would pursue alternative measures if negotiations stalled.
“We’re getting what we want slowly. Very tough negotiators. It takes a long time. I’m in no hurry. If you’re going to be in a hurry, you’re not going to make a good deal,” he said.
“Slowly but surely we’re getting what we want, and if we don’t get what we want, we’re going to end it a different way,” he added.
Trump’s remarks come amid reports that negotiations between Washington and Tehran have entered a crucial phase, with both sides continuing discussions over the terms of a possible agreement aimed at easing regional tensions and addressing concerns over Iran’s nuclear programme.
According to a report by Axios, Trump has requested several changes to a draft agreement negotiated by US envoys and Iranian representatives. The report, citing senior administration officials and sources familiar with the discussions, said the President wants stronger provisions relating to Iran’s nuclear material and clearer terms surrounding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz.
The requested revisions have reportedly triggered another round of exchanges between the two sides that could continue for several days. US officials told Axios that Trump is particularly focused on tightening language concerning the handling of Iran’s enriched uranium and ensuring stronger guarantees on nuclear restrictions.
Recent reports have suggested that US and Iranian negotiators have already reached a preliminary framework that could extend an existing ceasefire and pave the way for broader talks on Iran’s nuclear programme, although final approval remains pending.
Despite Trump’s optimistic comments, Iranian officials have indicated that negotiations are still ongoing and that no final agreement has yet been reached. Differences reportedly remain over issues including nuclear material, sanctions relief and arrangements relating to the Strait of Hormuz.
The latest developments come as the Trump administration continues to balance diplomatic efforts with military pressure, with senior US officials repeatedly stating that Washington remains prepared to take further action if talks collapse.
For now, both sides appear to be continuing negotiations, with the prospect of a deal still under discussion as diplomats work to resolve the remaining points of contention.Trump Says Iran Deal Close, Warns Military Option Remains
