Trump says Israel’s strike on Iran may have unexpected benefit for nuclear deal
President Donald Trump recently expressed his belief that Israel’s strike on Iran may actually increase the chances of a U.S.-Iran nuclear deal coming to fruition. In response to a question from an Axios reporter about whether Israel’s strike could jeopardize efforts to strike a deal with Iran, Trump stated, “I don’t think so. Maybe the opposite. Maybe now they will negotiate seriously.”
The president’s comments came after Israeli Defense Forces launched a series of bombings on Iran’s nuclear facilities and ballistic missile sites. Trump has been urging Iran to make a deal “before there is nothing left,” emphasizing the urgency of reaching a diplomatic resolution.
Trump, who withdrew the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) nuclear agreement during his first term, has made it clear that securing a deal with Iran is a top priority. The JCPOA had placed restrictions on Iran’s nuclear weapons development in exchange for easing sanctions on the country’s economy. However, efforts to return to the agreement during former President Joe Biden’s tenure have not been successful despite years of negotiations.
The U.S. and Iran have engaged in several rounds of indirect talks regarding Iran’s nuclear program, but a concrete agreement has yet to be reached. Trump has consistently maintained that Iran will not be allowed to possess a nuclear weapon, while Iran has argued that the U.S. has not respected its right to enrich uranium for civilian purposes. Reports have suggested that Trump may be open to allowing Iran to continue enriching uranium for non-violent purposes.
Following Israel’s recent attacks, further nuclear talks between the U.S. and Iran were scheduled to take place, but Iran has since announced that it will suspend its involvement in the negotiations “until further notice.” This decision comes amid escalating tensions in the region and uncertainty surrounding the future of diplomatic efforts.
As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen whether a U.S.-Iran nuclear deal will be reached. The White House has been contacted for additional comments on the matter. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.
