Trump says Iran has no option but to reach deal

WASHINGTON: WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump said on Monday that Iran has no option but to reach a deal, as tensions persist over negotiations between the two sides.

“In my view, Iran has no path except a deal,” Trump said in a televised address.

He also claimed that Iran’s nuclear capability had been “completely eliminated,” adding that Tehran could no longer reach what he described as even “nuclear dust,” though he did not provide evidence for the assertion.

Trump said he was seeking a “good deal” but did not want negotiations to be rushed.

“I want to make a good deal… I don’t want haste from those people,” he said, referring to the Iranian side.

The U.S. president also said Washington had “completely won the war,” without elaborating on the context of the remark.

He said that the United States was dealing with Iran “very successfully,” while signalling readiness for military action and reiterating his desire for a negotiated agreement.

“We are handling Iran very successfully,” Trump said, as tensions remain high over ongoing confrontations and diplomatic efforts.

Trump said Iran had sent mixed signals regarding the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping route.

“Iran said two days ago they would open the Strait of Hormuz, then said they would not,” he said, adding that the United States had “full control” over the waterway. He did not provide further details.

He added that discussions with Iranian officials were ongoing, saying he wished the public could hear the nature of the exchanges.

“I wish you could hear the conversations we have with the Iranians,” Trump said.

Iranian officials have repeatedly said they will not negotiate under pressure, highlighting continuing differences between the two sides over the terms of any potential agreement.

His remarks come amid uncertainty surrounding talks between Washington and Tehran, with both sides yet to confirm the timing of a next round of discussions.

Iranian officials have repeatedly said they would not negotiate under pressure, signalling continued differences between the two sides.

Trump also said that the full impact of tariffs would become clearer over time, but warned that the situation could become more challenging.

“In the end, the big numbers will come out, but it will become more difficult,” Trump said, referring to tariff-related outcomes.

He added that it would be preferable if companies did not seek exemptions from tariff measures.

“It would be great if companies don’t ask for waivers,” Trump said.

The U.S. president also signalled he would take note of companies that refrain from requesting relief.

“I will remember the companies that do not seek tariff reimbursements,” he said.

Trump did not elaborate on the specific tariffs or industries he was referring to.