US President Donald Trump on Wednesday suggested that Iran could retain ballistic missile capabilities under the emerging post-conflict framework, arguing that it would be unfair to deny Tehran such weapons if other countries in the region continue to possess them.

Speaking to reporters in Paris, Trump also indicated that the United States would maintain its military presence in the Gulf for the time being despite the agreement reached with Tehran to end nearly four months of conflict.

Trump Signals Support for Proportional Missile Capability

Addressing questions on Iran’s missile programme, Trump said any future arrangement should take into account the military capabilities of neighbouring countries.

“If other countries have them, it’s a little bit unfair for them not to have some,” the US President said.

Referring to regional powers including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, Trump suggested that allowing Iran to possess missiles in proportion to those maintained by its neighbours would be acceptable.

His remarks point to a more flexible approach towards Tehran’s conventional military capabilities as Washington and Iran move forward with implementing the recently agreed ceasefire framework.

US to Maintain Security Presence in Gulf

Trump also said the United States would continue to deploy military forces in the Gulf region for some time, despite the agreement aimed at ending hostilities with Iran.

He indicated that Washington intended to retain a security role in the region while the provisions of the agreement were being implemented.

“For a while,” Trump said when asked about the duration of the American military presence.

The comments suggest that while the ceasefire agreement marks a significant step towards easing tensions, the United States does not intend to immediately scale back its strategic footprint in the Gulf.

Post-Conflict Framework Continues to Take Shape

The remarks come after Washington and Tehran reached an agreement to end nearly four months of conflict and launch negotiations on a broader settlement.

Under the emerging framework, both countries are expected to work towards a permanent arrangement addressing issues ranging from sanctions and regional security to Iran’s nuclear activities.

Trump’s latest comments indicate that discussions surrounding Tehran’s missile capabilities and the future role of the United States in the Gulf are likely to remain central issues as negotiations progress.

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