In a new interview with Fox News, President Donald Trump stated that Iran has agreed not to pursue a nuclear weapons program as the two sides continue to negotiate on a lasting peace agreement. The U.S. has repeatedly stated that Iran must dismantle its nuclear weapons program, and dispose of all enriched uranium, in order for a deal to be reached.
“The one guarantee that I have to have is that there will be no nuclear weapons. They’ve agreed to that, and it was very interesting,” the president said.
“They said they originally said we will not develop a nuclear weapon. I said, well, what happens if you buy a nuclear weapon? So now [the agreement] says, ‘We will not develop or in any way purchase a military weapon.’ That’s a big difference. So we’re getting what we want slowly — very tough negotiators,” he added.
Preventing Iran from pursuing or acquiring nuclear weapons has been a central U.S. demand in the negotiations. U.S. officials have consistently identified the elimination of Iran’s nuclear weapons capability as essential for any lasting peace arrangement in the region.
Trump further emphasized that he is not rushing the process. “It takes a long time. I’m in no hurry… if you’re going to be in a hurry, you’re not going to make a good deal,” the president told Fox News.
He also indicated a preference for a negotiated outcome that would allow the Strait of Hormuz to reopen promptly, which has been effectively closed since the conflict erupted on February 28. The closure has greatly impacted global oil markets, as more than 20 percent of global oil exports flowed through the vital waterway prior to its closure.
While expressing optimism over the peace talks, President Trump once again reiterated that additional military action remains on the table if an agreement is not reached.
Mediators from countries such as Qatar and Pakistan have facilitated discussions in recent weeks. Last weekend, President Trump indicated that the two sides had agreed on a memorandum of understanding for a lasting peace deal that addresses key U.S. demands, including the complete dismantling of Tehran’s nuclear program and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
The two sides also agreed to extend the ceasefire — which first took effect in April — for another 60 days in order to allow comprehensive discussions on the nuclear issue.
