US President Donald Trump has reiterated that the United States may resort to military strikes against Iran if diplomatic negotiations do not yield results. Speaking from the Oval Office on Sunday, he stated that Washington has the capability to either secure a deal with Tehran or “finish the job.”

His remarks came during a period when indirect discussions between the two nations are reportedly on hold due to the funeral of Iran’s former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

While he emphasised his preference for a diplomatic resolution, Trump indicated that the US is prepared to take military action against essential Iranian infrastructure if necessary. He stated, “We can knock out their electricity and power-generating plants in the small part of an afternoon,” underscoring the potential speed and impact of such actions. He also expressed his desire to avoid harm to the Iranian populace, saying he would prefer negotiations to protect the interests of the 91 million citizens of Iran.

These comments come as the next phase of discussions surrounding Iran’s nuclear programme is being contemplated, with both sides weighing their options amidst a backdrop of escalating military tensions.

Claims of Iranian Concessions Highlight Ongoing Negotiations

Trump also asserted that Iran has already made certain concessions during ongoing negotiations, although these claims have yet to be substantiated with a formal agreement. He said, “We’ve gotten concessions; now they have to hold (to) those concessions,” suggesting that further negotiations are needed to solidify any agreements reached thus far. The US President has emphasised that a future deal could involve the removal of Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, a point that has not been confirmed by Iranian officials.

Despite the lack of a finalized agreement, Trump expressed optimism, stating, “We’re close to maybe making a deal— I don’t know. We’re going to win one way or the other.” This reflects his view that a resolution is achievable but still uncertain.

The negotiation landscape remains complex, with the US and Iran having temporarily disengaged from talks during the commemorative period marking Khamenei’s passing, indicating a strategic pause rather than a breakdown of communication.

Objective of Recent Conflict Clarified by Trump

Trump clarified that the intent of recent hostilities was not to overthrow the Iranian government. He remarked, “The goal was never to collapse the regime,” contrasting his earlier statements, where he had encouraged the Iranian populace to assume control of their government post-conflict. This shift illustrates a nuanced approach to a potentially volatile situation.

While Trump maintained his stance regarding the military options available to the US, he reiterated that he would prefer a peaceful resolution over renewed conflict. He highlighted that a negotiated settlement is in the best interest of both nations, although he asserted the need for readiness to act if diplomacy ultimately fails.

As the geopolitical situation evolves, the world watches closely for any developments in negotiations and the broader implications of US-Iran relations amid heightened tensions in the region.

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