Washington: US President Donald Trump has adopted a tougher stance on Iran, saying in a television interview that he is opposed to extending the current ceasefire and is prepared for the possibility of renewed military action if necessary.
He alleged during the interview that Iran has violated ceasefire arrangements on multiple occasions, arguing that this has eliminated the scope for further concessions. He stated that US forces remain fully ready for any escalation and claimed that the United States has already achieved major military gains, while Iran’s air, naval, and air defence capabilities have been severely degraded.
Referring to the Strait of Hormuz, Donald Trump said the United States currently holds effective control over the strategic waterway, describing the situation as a significant operational advantage. He added that ongoing restrictions are placing heavy economic pressure on Iran and would continue for now.
The US President again urged Iran to return to the negotiating table, stressing that Tehran must be prevented from developing nuclear weapons. He warned that a nuclear-armed Iran would pose a serious risk to regional stability.
He further said that the United States is negotiating from a position of strength and will not accept any agreement that is not in its interest. Any deal, he added, must be comprehensive and carefully structured.
Commenting on the broader situation, Donald Trump described recent developments in Iran as a major shift and suggested that a long-term solution would require a comprehensive agreement.
He expressed hope that Iran would eventually agree to a fair settlement and focus on rebuilding, but cautioned that failure to reach an agreement could further heighten tensions and make the continuation of the ceasefire uncertain.
