US President Donald Trump expressed optimism about negotiating a new nuclear deal with Iran during an interview aired Thursday evening. Trump emphasized the need for robust verification mechanisms to ensure Iran does not acquire nuclear weapons, a key concern for the US and its allies.
“The only thing I’ve said about Iran is they cannot have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said. He called Iran’s people “amazing” but labeled its leaders “religious zealots.” Stressing the importance of thorough inspections, he said, “There are ways to make it absolutely certain if you make a deal.”
Trump warned that allowing Iran to develop a nuclear weapon could trigger regional proliferation. “You know, they get one, you’re gonna have everyone else getting them, and then the whole thing is going to be a disaster,” he stated.
Shift from Maximum Pressure to Diplomacy
Trump’s remarks signal a significant shift from his administration’s earlier “maximum pressure campaign” against Tehran. That strategy, driven by figures like former National Security Advisor John Bolton, sought to force Iran back to negotiations but failed to achieve its objectives.
Instead, Trump appears to favor a diplomatic approach in his second term. Anonymous sources told the Financial Times that Trump is willing to engage Tehran through diplomacy before applying pressure. This marks a departure from his withdrawal from the 2015 nuclear accord, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), during his first term.
Possible Role for Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff
Trump hinted that his current Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, might lead negotiations with Iran. Witkoff, who played a key role in brokering a Gaza ceasefire last week, is reportedly being considered for the role. “Certainly somebody I would use,” Trump said when asked about the possibility of Witkoff taking on the new remit.
Witkoff’s diplomatic experience includes facilitating the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas since the group’s October 7, 2023, attack on Israel. His track record positions him as a potential point person for the administration’s diplomatic efforts with Iran.
Trump’s Diverse Team on Iran Policy
Trump’s Iran team includes a mix of perspectives. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio favor a hardline stance on Iran. However, Trump’s recent comments suggest a preference for diplomacy, though details of any potential agreement remain unclear.
Background: US Withdrawal from the JCPOA
In 2018, Trump unilaterally withdrew the US from the JCPOA, a deal brokered by the Obama administration with China, Russia, the UK, France, Germany, and the EU. The agreement offered Iran sanctions relief in exchange for strict curbs on its nuclear program and enhanced inspections. Trump criticized the deal as insufficient and sought to renegotiate its terms.
As discussions about a new nuclear pact emerge, Trump’s administration appears to be recalibrating its strategy toward Tehran. Whether this approach leads to a breakthrough remains uncertain.
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