Trump says Iran talks ‘constructive,’ urges caution on deal as Tehran asserts Hormuz control rights

WASHINGTON: US President Donald Trump on Sunday said negotiations with Iran are continuing in a structured and constructive manner, while stressing that no final agreement has been reached and cautioning against rushing into any deal.

Trump said he has instructed his diplomatic representatives not to hurry negotiations, adding that “time is on our side” and that discussions must be handled carefully to ensure a correct outcome.

“The blockade will remain in full force and effect until an agreement is reached, certified, and signed. Both sides must take their time and get it right,” he wrote on Truth Social, a day after indicating that a framework agreement with Tehran had been largely negotiated. “There can be no mistakes,” he added.

He also reiterated criticism of the Obama-era Iran nuclear deal, calling it “the worst agreement,” and said the current approach is being designed more cautiously, with Iran’s nuclear ambitions under close scrutiny.

Meanwhile, Iranian military adviser Mohsen Rezaei said on Sunday that managing the Strait of Hormuz is Tehran’s “legal right” to ensure national security. He added that Iran’s control of the strategic waterway would end “50 years of insecurity in the Persian Gulf,” according to Iranian media.

Rezaei’s remarks add to ongoing tensions over the key shipping route, through which a significant portion of global oil supplies passes, and come amid broader diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.

Trump, however, said relations with Iran are becoming “more professional and productive,” and expressed gratitude to Middle Eastern countries for their support in ongoing diplomatic efforts.