Trump Signals Lower Risk of Strike as US and Iran Hold Nuclear Talks
US President Donald Trump indicated that new military strikes against Iran are unlikely if Tehran agrees to a nuclear deal and reopens the Strait of Hormuz, amid ongoing diplomatic talks and domestic political pressures in Washington.
US President Donald Trump signaled that new military strikes against Iran are unlikely if Tehran moves toward a nuclear agreement and reopens the Strait of Hormuz. Speaking in a recent interview, Trump stated that he is not looking to escalate the conflict, aligning with ongoing sensitive diplomatic contacts between Washington and Tehran aimed at preventing a return to all-out war.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei stated that Iran remains committed to international nuclear agreements and the IAEA, despite blaming recent US and Israeli strikes against Iranian nuclear facilities for disrupting routine inspection procedures. Baghaei criticized the IAEA Board of Governors and the agency's director, while confirming that professional communication between the Iranian mission in Vienna and the agency continues, including a recent inspection at the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
In Washington, skepticism persists despite the diplomatic openings. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that he does not believe the parties are on the verge of a breakthrough, and Trump emphasized that the military option remains on the table.
The negotiations are also influenced by US domestic politics following Republican losses in the midterm elections. Vice President JD Vance noted that the war contributed to the electoral setback, a sentiment Trump acknowledged while firmly defending the original decision to strike Iranian targets.
