WASHINGTON: The United States President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has agreed not only to refrain from developing nuclear weapons but also to avoid acquiring them through any means, describing the move as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
Trump said he preferred reaching a diplomatic agreement over escalating tensions, emphasizing that a successful deal could lead to the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping route.
He stressed that the United States’ primary objective remains ensuring that Iran does not possess nuclear weapons.
Iran’s initial position during the negotiations was limited to a commitment not to manufacture nuclear weapons. However, following objections from the US side, the proposed framework was expanded to include a pledge that Iran would neither purchase nor seek to obtain nuclear-capable military weapons in any form.
The US president noted that Iranian negotiators have maintained a firm stance throughout the talks, making the negotiation process lengthy and challenging. Despite this, he said Washington is focused on achieving lasting and sustainable results rather than rushing toward a quick agreement.
Trump also claimed that the United States had targeted Iran’s military leadership and other strategic sites but deliberately avoided completely dismantling the country’s military structure.
He argued that past conflicts have demonstrated the risks associated with destroying a nation’s entire state apparatus, often leading to prolonged instability and security challenges.
Trump said lessons learned from previous military engagements, particularly in Iraq, have influenced the current U.S. approach toward the region. He explained that policymakers are seeking to avoid mistakes made in earlier conflicts by adopting a strategy aimed at preserving long-term regional stability while safeguarding American interests.
The remarks come amid continued international attention on U.S.-Iran relations and ongoing diplomatic efforts to address concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear program.
