WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump has claimed that Iran has provided assurances it will not develop nuclear weapons, as negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue over a broader agreement aimed at easing regional tensions.
Speaking during an interview with his daughter-in-law Lara Trump on Fox News, Trump said the key condition for any deal was preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. He added that Iranian officials had agreed to that requirement.
Reports from US media outlets suggested that the Trump administration recently returned a revised proposal to Tehran containing stricter conditions, although details of the updated framework have not been disclosed. The changes could delay efforts to secure a final agreement intended to formally end hostilities in the Middle East and restore unrestricted navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
While Trump has repeatedly emphasized the importance of halting Iran’s nuclear ambitions and reopening the strategic waterway, Iranian officials have remained skeptical of some US claims. Tehran continues to demand the release of approximately $12 billion in frozen assets before engaging in substantive discussions on its nuclear program.
Iran has also rejected previous US statements regarding the destruction of its enriched uranium stockpile, describing such claims as unfounded. Additionally, Iranian authorities insist that developments in Lebanon must be considered in any broader regional settlement, as fighting involving Hezbollah and Israeli forces continues.
Although Trump previously suggested an agreement was close, his latest remarks indicated a more cautious approach. He warned that if diplomatic efforts fail to achieve Washington’s objectives, alternative measures could be considered.
His comments echoed those of US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who recently stated that the United States retains the capability to resume military operations if necessary.
Despite an April ceasefire and subsequent talks facilitated by Pakistan, sporadic confrontations have continued. Iranian state media reported that the country’s Revolutionary Guards intercepted and downed a US drone allegedly approaching Iranian territorial waters.
Tensions also escalated earlier this week following reported US strikes on the Iranian port city of Bandar Abbas and Iran’s subsequent retaliatory actions.
Nevertheless, diplomatic engagement remains active as both sides seek a resolution that could remove restrictions affecting maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for global energy supplies.
Iranian lawmakers are meanwhile considering legislation aimed at strengthening the country’s authority and management of the strategic waterway, according to local media reports.
