US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is engaged in talks with Iran and expressed cautious optimism that negotiations could lead to progress on Tehran's nuclear programme and regional tensions. Speaking on Tuesday (May 2), Rubio said Iran had agreed to negotiate aspects of its nuclear programme that it had previously refused to discuss, describing the development as a potential breakthrough in diplomatic efforts. "There is a prospect that Iran has agreed to negotiate aspects of the nuclear programme that they previously refused to mention in discussions," Rubio said.&nbsp;He added that the United States hopes the Strait of Hormuz will reopen and that discussions could then expand to other issues. "We are in talks with Iran," Rubio said, while stressing that reopening the strategic waterway remains Washington's top condition.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/route-for-weapon-smuggling-what-we-know-about-the-secret-tunnel-connecting-tijuana-and-san-diego-1780413849571">Route for weapon smuggling? What we know about the secret tunnel connecting Tijuana and San Diego</a>&nbsp;According to Rubio, "Condition number one" in the negotiations is for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and publicly declare that maritime traffic can move freely through the passage. "Iran has to announce very clearly that the Hormuz Strait is now open," Rubio said. "The Strait has to reopen for anything else in the deal with Iran to happen."&nbsp;Rubio accused Tehran of failing to honour previous commitments, saying Iran had indicated it would reopen the waterway after a ceasefire came into effect but had not done so. He also alleged that Iran was continuing to fire on commercial ships in the region. The US Secretary of State emphasised that any easing of sanctions would be strictly conditional. "Iran will not get sanctions relief just for reopening the Strait of Hormuz," he said.&nbsp;Rubio said Tehran would also need to commit to specific negotiations regarding the disposition of its highly enriched uranium stockpile before sanctions relief could be considered. "Any sanctions relief on Iran is condition-based," Rubio said. The top US diplomat also claimed that Iran's conventional military capabilities had been significantly weakened.&nbsp;"Iranian conventional shield has been substantially eroded," Rubio said, while adding that there were indications that Iran's Supreme Leader was becoming increasingly engaged in decision-making related to the ongoing negotiations. Beyond Iran, Rubio said the United States intends to end waivers related to sanctions on Russian oil in the near future.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-had-called-obama-s-2015-jcpoa-deal-with-iran-worst-ever-is-he-following-the-same-plan-now-1780395191420">Is Trump following Obama's 2015 JCPOA plan to negotiate with Iran?</a>&nbsp;He also announced that Washington would re-engage with the global vaccine alliance Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, saying the administration wanted an outcome that would satisfy both Congress and US global health objectives. "We're not just providing money, we are also seeking outcomes," Rubio said. "It's not just how much money you spend on a programme, it's whether you're getting outcomes from it."

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism over breakthrough talks, demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and negotiate its uranium stockpile before receiving any conditional sanctions relief.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Washington is engaged in talks with Iran and expressed cautious optimism that negotiations could lead to progress on Tehran's nuclear programme and regional tensions. Speaking on Tuesday (May 2), Rubio said Iran had agreed to negotiate aspects of its nuclear programme that it had previously refused to discuss, describing the development as a potential breakthrough in diplomatic efforts. "There is a prospect that Iran has agreed to negotiate aspects of the nuclear programme that they previously refused to mention in discussions," Rubio said. He added that the United States hopes the Strait of Hormuz will reopen and that discussions could then expand to other issues. "We are in talks with Iran," Rubio said, while stressing that reopening the strategic waterway remains Washington's top condition. Also read: Route for weapon smuggling? What we know about the secret tunnel connecting Tijuana and San Diego According to Rubio, "Condition number one" in the negotiations is for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and publicly declare that maritime traffic can move freely through the passage. "Iran has to announce very clearly that the Hormuz Strait is now open," Rubio said. "The Strait has to reopen for anything else in the deal with Iran to happen." Rubio accused Tehran of failing to honour previous commitments, saying Iran had indicated it would reopen the waterway after a ceasefire came into effect but had not done so. He also alleged that Iran was continuing to fire on commercial ships in the region. The US Secretary of State emphasised that any easing of sanctions would be strictly conditional. "Iran will not get sanctions relief just for reopening the Strait of Hormuz," he said. Rubio said Tehran would also need to commit to specific negotiations regarding the disposition of its highly enriched uranium stockpile before sanctions relief could be considered. "Any sanctions relief on Iran is condition-based," Rubio said. The top US diplomat also claimed that Iran's conventional military capabilities had been significantly weakened. "Iranian conventional shield has been substantially eroded," Rubio said, while adding that there were indications that Iran's Supreme Leader was becoming increasingly engaged in decision-making related to the ongoing negotiations. Beyond Iran, Rubio said the United States intends to end waivers related to sanctions on Russian oil in the near future. Also read: Is Trump following Obama's 2015 JCPOA plan to negotiate with Iran? He also announced that Washington would re-engage with the global vaccine alliance Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, saying the administration wanted an outcome that would satisfy both Congress and US global health objectives. "We're not just providing money, we are also seeking outcomes," Rubio said. "It's not just how much money you spend on a programme, it's whether you're getting outcomes from it."

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed cautious optimism over breakthrough talks, demanding Iran reopen the Strait of Hormuz and negotiate its uranium stockpile before receiving any conditional sanctions relief.

‘There is a prospect that Iran has agreed to negotiate aspects of nuke programme’: Rubio

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has lashed out at the Trump administration, claiming that a historic proposal to ensure "no nuclear weapons" was dismissed because US negotiators lacked the technical knowledge to understand it. In a post on X on Thursday (Mar 12), Araghchi argued that "factual knowledge matters," further asserting that the current surge in oil prices and trade tariffs, driven by the 13-day-old Iran War, is "crushing" American households while only enriching corporations.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-admin-lifts-sanctions-on-russian-oil-to-curb-volatile-crude-prices-amid-iran-war-us-israel-india-petrol-diesel-1773367067312">Trump admin lifts sanctions on Russian oil to curb volatile crude prices amid Iran war</a>Using a two-pronged "Case Study" approach, he portrayed US officials as technically incompetent and economically out of touch. This comes as oil remained above the benchmark $100 a barrel on Friday despite a record release of crude reserves and as the International Energy Agency warned that the Iran war could create "the largest supply disruption" in the industry's history.<h2>What did Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi say?</h2>In a post on X, the Iranian FM mocked the United States' failed diplomacy efforts. He noted that while Tehran had proposed a "NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS" deal, negotiations didn't make any headway "because US counterparts didn't grasp the technical details."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-lie-lie-lie-iran-uses-inside-out-ai-satire-to-mock-trump-s-evil-impulses-amid-minab-school-strike-and-epstein-files-controversies-watch-1773374313730">'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike &amp; Epstein files controversies | Watch</a>He also slammed America for trying to allegedly profit from the inflationary impact of volatile oil prices and high tariffs on other nations. "Americans won't ‘make money’ from surging oil prices and tariffs. They enrich corporations and crush households," wrote Araghchi.&nbsp; &nbsp;Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has launched a scathing attack on the Trump administration, claiming that a historic "no nuclear weapons" proposal failed because US counterparts lacked the "technical knowledge" to understand it.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has lashed out at the Trump administration, claiming that a historic proposal to ensure "no nuclear weapons" was dismissed because US negotiators lacked the technical knowledge to understand it. In a post on X on Thursday (Mar 12), Araghchi argued that "factual knowledge matters," further asserting that the current surge in oil prices and trade tariffs, driven by the 13-day-old Iran War, is "crushing" American households while only enriching corporations. Also read | Trump admin lifts sanctions on Russian oil to curb volatile crude prices amid Iran war Using a two-pronged "Case Study" approach, he portrayed US officials as technically incompetent and economically out of touch. This comes as oil remained above the benchmark $100 a barrel on Friday despite a record release of crude reserves and as the International Energy Agency warned that the Iran war could create "the largest supply disruption" in the industry's history. What did Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi say? In a post on X, the Iranian FM mocked the United States' failed diplomacy efforts. He noted that while Tehran had proposed a "NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS" deal, negotiations didn't make any headway "because US counterparts didn't grasp the technical details." Also read | 'Lie! lie! lie!': Iran uses AI satire video to mock Trump's ‘Inside Out’ evil impulses amid Minab school strike & Epstein files controversies | Watch He also slammed America for trying to allegedly profit from the inflationary impact of volatile oil prices and high tariffs on other nations. "Americans won't ‘make money’ from surging oil prices and tariffs. They enrich corporations and crush households," wrote Araghchi. Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing conflicts in West Asia involving Israel, Iran, US, Gulf nations and non-state actors like Hezbollah, Hamas, Houthis, Islamic State, and others. Claims and counterclaims, disinformation and misinformation are being made online and offline. Given this context, WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, social media posts, photos and videos.

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi has launched a scathing attack on the Trump administration, claiming that a historic "no nuclear weapons" proposal failed because US counterparts lacked the "technical knowledge" to understand it.

Iran FM Abbas Araghchi mocks US diplomacy; claims 'NO NUCLEAR WEAPONS' deal failed because of American negotiators' 'technical ignorance'

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 27) that he is "not happy" with Iran but wants to make a nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic. Speaking to reporters before flying to Texas, the American president said, “Not happy with Iran but more talks expected Friday."&nbsp;He made clear that his core demand remains unchanged: “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.” When he was asked whether he would use military force against Tehran, Trump said, “Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-never-visited-his-island-hillary-clinton-denies-any-wrongdoing-says-if-committee-wants-truth-on-epstein-files-ask-trump-directly-under-oath-1772131282616">'Never visited his island': Hillary Clinton denies any wrongdoing, says if committee wants truth on Epstein Files, 'ask Trump directly under oath'</a>&nbsp;This came after the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.”&nbsp;Moreover, a massive military buildup was reported in the Middle East after the tensions escalated between Tehran and Washington. A satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran.&nbsp;The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump said he is “not happy” with Iran but remains open to further nuclear talks, reiterating that Iran “cannot have nuclear weapons.” While he said he does not want to use military force, he added, “sometimes you have to.”

US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 27) that he is "not happy" with Iran but wants to make a nuclear deal with the Islamic Republic. Speaking to reporters before flying to Texas, the American president said, “Not happy with Iran but more talks expected Friday." He made clear that his core demand remains unchanged: “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.” When he was asked whether he would use military force against Tehran, Trump said, “Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to." Also read: 'Never visited his island': Hillary Clinton denies any wrongdoing, says if committee wants truth on Epstein Files, 'ask Trump directly under oath' This came after the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.” Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.” Moreover, a massive military buildup was reported in the Middle East after the tensions escalated between Tehran and Washington. A satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran. The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.

US President Donald Trump said he is “not happy” with Iran but remains open to further nuclear talks, reiterating that Iran “cannot have nuclear weapons.” While he said he does not want to use military force, he added, “sometimes you have to.”

‘Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to’: Donald Trump on using military force in Iran amid nuke tensions

Amid the escalated tensions over the US-Iran nuclear deal, US Vice President JD Vance rejected the reports that an American strike against Tehran would lead to years of war in the Middle East. “The idea that we’re going to be in a Middle Eastern war for years with no end in sight - there is no chance that will happen," Vance said in an interview with The Washington Post. The US VP cited the airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities last June and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as examples of “very clearly defined" military campaigns.&nbsp;“I think we all prefer the diplomatic option. But it really depends on what the Iranians do and what they say," Vance said. He added that he did not know if Trump would decide on strikes “to ensure Iran isn’t going to get a nuclear weapon," or continue to seek to resolve “the problem diplomatically."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/-never-visited-his-island-hillary-clinton-denies-any-wrongdoing-says-if-committee-wants-truth-on-epstein-files-ask-trump-directly-under-oath-1772131282616">'Never visited his island': Hillary Clinton denies any wrongdoing, says if committee wants truth on Epstein Files, 'ask Trump directly under oath'</a>&nbsp;This came amid the massive military buildup in the Middle East after the tensions escalated between Tehran and Washington. A satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran.&nbsp;The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.&nbsp;

US Vice President JD Vance says the US won’t enter a prolonged Middle East war even if it strikes Iran, preferring diplomacy but saying outcomes depend on Iranian actions and statements.

Amid the escalated tensions over the US-Iran nuclear deal, US Vice President JD Vance rejected the reports that an American strike against Tehran would lead to years of war in the Middle East. “The idea that we’re going to be in a Middle Eastern war for years with no end in sight - there is no chance that will happen," Vance said in an interview with The Washington Post. The US VP cited the airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities last June and the capture of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro as examples of “very clearly defined" military campaigns. “I think we all prefer the diplomatic option. But it really depends on what the Iranians do and what they say," Vance said. He added that he did not know if Trump would decide on strikes “to ensure Iran isn’t going to get a nuclear weapon," or continue to seek to resolve “the problem diplomatically." Also read: 'Never visited his island': Hillary Clinton denies any wrongdoing, says if committee wants truth on Epstein Files, 'ask Trump directly under oath' This came amid the massive military buildup in the Middle East after the tensions escalated between Tehran and Washington. A satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran. The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.

US Vice President JD Vance says the US won’t enter a prolonged Middle East war even if it strikes Iran, preferring diplomacy but saying outcomes depend on Iranian actions and statements.

‘No US war in Middle East’: JD Vance says everything depends on ‘what Iranians do and say’

Amid heightened tensions over a nuclear deal between the US and Iran, a satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran.&nbsp;The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner.<h2>Trump to attack Iran soon?</h2>US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 20) that he may be "considering" a limited strike on Iran. "I guess I can say I am considering that," he said when asked about such a military campaign. Amid this, major warships have been reported heading towards the Middle East. The nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln was seen heading towards Iran. The warship has the capacity to carry more than 65 aircraft. It can carry around 5,700 crew members and has a length of 333 meters. Another nuclear-powered warship, USS Gerald Ford, was seen in the Atlantic Ocean and was heading towards the Middle East. It can carry 4,550 crew members and is 337 meters long. It can carry 75+ aircraft. Other than these two warships, USS Michael Murphy, USS Spruance and USS Franc E Petersen Jr were also reported heading towards Iran.<h2>Other missile destroyers</h2>USS Bainbridge, USS Mahan, and USS Winston S Churchil were also reported heading towards the Middle East amid the tensions. Two fighter jets: F35C Lightning II and FA/18 Super Hornet were reported to be on the warships. Other than these, EA-18G Growler (electronic warfare aircraft), E-2D Hawkeye (early warning aircraft), and MH-60 Seahawk (anti-submarine and anti-ship helicopter) were reported to be onboard. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Satellite imagery has revealed the deployment of 11 US F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel amid rising US-Iran nuclear tensions

Amid heightened tensions over a nuclear deal between the US and Iran, a satellite image obtained by the Chinese company Mizarvision showed 11 newly arrived US F-22 stealth fighter aircraft deployed at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel. The 5th-generation F-22 Raptor jets, which first appeared in imagery from Planet Labs on Wednesday, are the latest addition to the American military buildup in the Middle East amid the efforts by Donald Trump to secure a deal with Tehran. The F-22 Raptor is a fighter jet designed for both air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. The jet is America's first plane with “supercruise” abilities, meaning it can fly faster than the speed of sound for long periods without using the engine’s fuel-consuming afterburner. Trump to attack Iran soon? US President Donald Trump said on Friday (Feb 20) that he may be "considering" a limited strike on Iran. "I guess I can say I am considering that," he said when asked about such a military campaign. Amid this, major warships have been reported heading towards the Middle East. The nuclear-powered USS Abraham Lincoln was seen heading towards Iran. The warship has the capacity to carry more than 65 aircraft. It can carry around 5,700 crew members and has a length of 333 meters. Another nuclear-powered warship, USS Gerald Ford, was seen in the Atlantic Ocean and was heading towards the Middle East. It can carry 4,550 crew members and is 337 meters long. It can carry 75+ aircraft. Other than these two warships, USS Michael Murphy, USS Spruance and USS Franc E Petersen Jr were also reported heading towards Iran. Other missile destroyers USS Bainbridge, USS Mahan, and USS Winston S Churchil were also reported heading towards the Middle East amid the tensions. Two fighter jets: F35C Lightning II and FA/18 Super Hornet were reported to be on the warships. Other than these, EA-18G Growler (electronic warfare aircraft), E-2D Hawkeye (early warning aircraft), and MH-60 Seahawk (anti-submarine and anti-ship helicopter) were reported to be onboard.

Satellite imagery has revealed the deployment of 11 US F-22 Raptor stealth fighter jets at Ovda Air Base in southern Israel amid rising US-Iran nuclear tensions

US-Iran nuclear tensions: Satellite image reveals F-22 stealth fighter jets in Mideast. What is happening?

As the third round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran concluded in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26), the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.”&nbsp;Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.”<h2>Third round of US-Iran talks</h2>After the talks were concluded with "great seriousness," the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, “What I can tell you is that, in both the nuclear field and the issue of sanctions relief, very important and practical proposals and initiatives were presented, and both delegations pursued the discussions with great seriousness."&nbsp;Earlier, the White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday (Feb 24) that the US President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy as a first option on Iran but is prepared to use lethal force if necessary.<h2>Russia to play a part in US-Iran nuclear issue?</h2>Last week, Russia came forward and said that it was ready to accept enriched uranium from Iran as part of efforts to resolve the matter. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 18), “We had an initiative and stated our readiness to accept enriched uranium, which was discussed." He added that the outcome of the Iran-US talks should not be prejudged and that it was entirely a matter between the US and Iran.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-terror-anywhere-threatens-peace-everywhere-says-indian-pm-as-netanyahu-welcomes-brother-modi-in-knesset-1772035104138">'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset</a>&nbsp;This came as Iran and Russia announced a joint naval manoeuvres in the Sea of Oman tomorrow, as per Iranian media. “The joint naval exercise of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia will take place tomorrow in the Sea of Oman and in the northern Indian Ocean,” the ISNA agency reported, quoting drill spokesman, Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoudloo. “The aim is to strengthen maritime security and to deepen relations between the navies of the two countries," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The third round of US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva ended positively, with Ali Shamkhani saying an immediate deal is possible if limited to non-production of nuclear weapons and sanctions relief discussions.

As the third round of nuclear talks between the US and Iran concluded in Geneva on Thursday (Feb 26), the key adviser of Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei said that an “immediate agreement” between the United States and Iran could be within reach if the subject of talks is confined to Iran’s “non-production of nuclear weapons.” Ali Shamkhani wrote on X, “If the main issue of the negotiations is Iran’s non-production of nuclear weapons, this is consistent with the Leader’s fatwa and Iran’s defense doctrine, and an immediate agreement is within reach." The former Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps commander added that Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is in Geneva, has “sufficient support and authority to conclude such an agreement.” Third round of US-Iran talks After the talks were concluded with "great seriousness," the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said, “What I can tell you is that, in both the nuclear field and the issue of sanctions relief, very important and practical proposals and initiatives were presented, and both delegations pursued the discussions with great seriousness." Earlier, the White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Tuesday (Feb 24) that the US President Donald Trump prefers diplomacy as a first option on Iran but is prepared to use lethal force if necessary. Russia to play a part in US-Iran nuclear issue? Last week, Russia came forward and said that it was ready to accept enriched uranium from Iran as part of efforts to resolve the matter. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday (Feb 18), “We had an initiative and stated our readiness to accept enriched uranium, which was discussed." He added that the outcome of the Iran-US talks should not be prejudged and that it was entirely a matter between the US and Iran. Also read: 'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset This came as Iran and Russia announced a joint naval manoeuvres in the Sea of Oman tomorrow, as per Iranian media. “The joint naval exercise of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Russia will take place tomorrow in the Sea of Oman and in the northern Indian Ocean,” the ISNA agency reported, quoting drill spokesman, Rear Admiral Hassan Maghsoudloo. “The aim is to strengthen maritime security and to deepen relations between the navies of the two countries," he added.

The third round of US-Iran nuclear talks in Geneva ended positively, with Ali Shamkhani saying an immediate deal is possible if limited to non-production of nuclear weapons and sanctions relief discussions.

Deal with US possible if talks stay confined to ‘non-production of nuclear weapons’: Ali Khamenei’s aide

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 25), made multiple claims that were inaccurate or lacked evidence. Among others, one of his claims was that Iran has “already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America.”<h2>How true is the statement?</h2>It is correct that several major US military installations in the Middle East, such as in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, could be threatened by Tehran's ballistic missiles. But there is no evidence that the Islamic Republic has developed intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach Western Europe or the United States.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-terror-anywhere-threatens-peace-everywhere-says-indian-pm-as-netanyahu-welcomes-brother-modi-in-knesset-1772035104138">'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset</a><h2>Trump's claim on Iran's nuke programme</h2>The American president said that he was amassing US military assets around Iran to ensure the country does not obtain a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/stephen-hawking-pictured-with-two-women-in-bikinis-during-event-organised-by-epstein-family-says-they-re-caregivers-1772109268579">Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’</a>&nbsp;But in reality, Iran has made multiple statements that the country is not pursuing a nuclear bomb. Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, on Tuesday, just after Trump's speech, said that Iran “will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon.”&nbsp;"Pillared on the understandings forged in the previous round, Iran will resume talks with the US in Geneva with a determination to achieve a fair and equitable deal in the shortest possible time," he said on X. "Our fundamental convictions are crystal clear: Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon; neither will we Iranians ever forgo our right to harness the dividends of peaceful nuclear technology for our people," he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Donald Trump claimed Iran can threaten the US with missiles. While Iran can target regional US bases, no verified evidence shows it has operational intercontinental missiles reaching America.

US President Donald Trump, during his State of the Union address on Tuesday (Feb 25), made multiple claims that were inaccurate or lacked evidence. Among others, one of his claims was that Iran has “already developed missiles that can threaten Europe and our bases overseas and they’re working to build missiles that will soon reach the United States of America.” How true is the statement? It is correct that several major US military installations in the Middle East, such as in the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait, could be threatened by Tehran's ballistic missiles. But there is no evidence that the Islamic Republic has developed intercontinental ballistic missiles that can reach Western Europe or the United States. Also read: 'Terror anywhere threatens peace everywhere,' says Indian PM as Netanyahu welcomes 'brother Modi' in Knesset Trump's claim on Iran's nuke programme The American president said that he was amassing US military assets around Iran to ensure the country does not obtain a nuclear weapon. “They want to make a deal, but we haven’t heard those secret words: We will never have a nuclear weapon,” Trump said. Also read: Stephen Hawking pictured with two women in bikinis during event organised by Epstein, family says they’re ‘caregivers’ But in reality, Iran has made multiple statements that the country is not pursuing a nuclear bomb. Tehran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, on Tuesday, just after Trump's speech, said that Iran “will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon.” "Pillared on the understandings forged in the previous round, Iran will resume talks with the US in Geneva with a determination to achieve a fair and equitable deal in the shortest possible time," he said on X. "Our fundamental convictions are crystal clear: Iran will under no circumstances ever develop a nuclear weapon; neither will we Iranians ever forgo our right to harness the dividends of peaceful nuclear technology for our people," he added.

Donald Trump claimed Iran can threaten the US with missiles. While Iran can target regional US bases, no verified evidence shows it has operational intercontinental missiles reaching America.

Iran has already developed nuclear missile that can threaten US? Fact-checking Trump's claim

Trump said he is considering a limited strike on Iran as USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford, along with destroyers and advanced aircraft, move toward the Middle East.

Trump to attack Iran soon? From USS Abraham Lincoln to Gerald Ford US deploys - these warships are heading towards Middle East

The US and Iran were Cold War allies until the 1953 coup and the 1979 Islamic Revolution shattered ties. Hostage crises, sanctions, proxy wars, and the collapsed nuclear deal entrenched decades of hostility.

Why are US and Iran enemies? The dispute that made allies now rivals

Central to the USS Gerald R. Ford's operational efficiency and airstrike capability are the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), which replace the steam catapults and hydraulic arresting systems of Nimitz-class carriers.

EMALS & AAG: How USS Gerald R. Ford can launch 160 aircraft in 24 hours for faster, stronger, smarter air operations

US Senator Lindsey Graham compared Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to Adolf Hitler, calling the regime “religious Nazis” and warning that failure to confront Tehran would undermine US credibility.

'Hitler wanted master race. They want master religion': US Senator Lindsey Graham compares Khamenei with Nazis

US President Donald Trump warned Iran that failure to reach a nuclear deal would bring a “very traumatic” outcome, citing past strikes and stressing consequences after talks with Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

‘It’s going to be traumatic’: Trump threatens Iran over failure of nuclear deal

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew from Washington on Thursday (Feb 12) after meeting US President Donald Trump. Before onboarding the flight, he said that the Iranians could be forced to accept “a good deal", but he is sceptical about it.“I have just concluded a short but important visit to Washington, during which I spoke with our great friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, adding: “We have a close, genuine, and open relationship.”&nbsp;“The president believes the Iranians already understand who they are dealing with. I think the conditions he (Trump) is setting, combined with their understanding that they made a mistake last time by not reaching an agreement, could lead them to accept terms that would make it possible to achieve a good deal," he further said.&nbsp;The Israeli PM also added, "I do not hide my general scepticism about the possibility of reaching any agreement with Iran." He said that he made it clear to the White House that any agreement “must include the components that are important to us, to Israel, and in my view also to the entire international community — not only the nuclear issue, but also ballistic missiles and Iran’s regional proxies.”<h2>‘It’s going to be traumatic'</h2>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-afterlife-free-of-sin-shafiqur-rahman-s-party-offers-religious-promises-125-in-bribes-to-bangladesh-voters-in-secret-pamphlet-1770922125324">‘Afterlife free of sin’: Shafiqur Rahman’s party offers religious promises, $125 in bribes to Bangladesh voters in ‘secret’ pamphlet</a>&nbsp;US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.”&nbsp;“We had a very good meeting yesterday with Bibi Netanyahu, and he understands, but it's ultimately up to me if the deal is in a very fair deal and a very good deal with Iran, and it's going to be. I think a very difficult time for them,” Trump said.&nbsp;

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, after meeting Donald Trump in Washington, said Iran could be pressured into a “good deal” but remained sceptical, insisting any agreement must address nuclear issues, missiles and regional proxies.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu flew from Washington on Thursday (Feb 12) after meeting US President Donald Trump. Before onboarding the flight, he said that the Iranians could be forced to accept “a good deal", but he is sceptical about it. “I have just concluded a short but important visit to Washington, during which I spoke with our great friend, President Trump,” Netanyahu said on the tarmac at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland, adding: “We have a close, genuine, and open relationship.” “The president believes the Iranians already understand who they are dealing with. I think the conditions he (Trump) is setting, combined with their understanding that they made a mistake last time by not reaching an agreement, could lead them to accept terms that would make it possible to achieve a good deal," he further said. The Israeli PM also added, "I do not hide my general scepticism about the possibility of reaching any agreement with Iran." He said that he made it clear to the White House that any agreement “must include the components that are important to us, to Israel, and in my view also to the entire international community — not only the nuclear issue, but also ballistic missiles and Iran’s regional proxies.” ‘It’s going to be traumatic' Also read: ‘Afterlife free of sin’: Shafiqur Rahman’s party offers religious promises, $125 in bribes to Bangladesh voters in ‘secret’ pamphlet US President Donald Trump, on Thursday (Feb 12), warned Iran, saying that if the Islamic Republic fails to reach an agreement with America, then it will lead to a “very traumatic” outcome for Tehran. “With Iran, we have to make a deal, otherwise it's going to be very traumatic, very traumatic,” Trump said in remarks at the White House. He added, “They should have made a deal the first time, and they got Midnight Hammer instead.” “We had a very good meeting yesterday with Bibi Netanyahu, and he understands, but it's ultimately up to me if the deal is in a very fair deal and a very good deal with Iran, and it's going to be. I think a very difficult time for them,” Trump said.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu, after meeting Donald Trump in Washington, said Iran could be pressured into a “good deal” but remained sceptical, insisting any agreement must address nuclear issues, missiles and regional proxies.

‘Iran could be forced to accept good deal,’ says Netanyahu, but adds he’s sceptical

IAEA chief Rafael Grossi revealed that around 400 kg of uranium enriched to over 60 per cent purity remains at damaged sites like Natanz and Fordow, amid rising tensions between Tehran and Washington.

How many nuclear bombs can be made from Iran's enriched uranium? IAEA reveals

Trump urged continued Iran talks during his Feb 11 meeting with Netanyahu, while warning of tough action if no deal is reached. Netanyahu stressed Israel’s security concerns. Iran signaled openness to nuclear curbs for sanctions relief but said its missile program is non-negotiable.

'Another option...': Trump urges Netanyahu for continued nuclear talks, but Vance issues BIG warning to Iran - What's happening

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 11), where the leaders discussed multiple topics, including the nuclear deal with Iran. The American president, via a social media post, warned Tehran that there would be consequences if no deal was signed. "I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that it will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be," Trump wrote on Truth Social.&nbsp;"Last time Iran decided that they were better off not making a Deal, and they were hit with Midnight Hammer - That did not work well for them," he added.&nbsp;He further wrote, "Hopefully, this time they will be more reasonable and responsible. Additionally, we discussed the tremendous progress being made in Gaza and the Region in general. There is truly PEACE in the Middle East. Thank you for your attention to this matter!"<h2>Trump wants Iran's ballistic missiles as part of discussion</h2>Earlier, the American president, in an interview on Tuesday (Feb 10), said that it was a "no-brainer" that any deal with Iran would include its nuclear programme. Still, he also thought it would be possible to address Iran's ballistic missile stockpiles. When questioned about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's take on the upcoming talks, Trump said he doesn't think Netanyahu is nervous about the US-Iran negotiations. "He also wants a deal. He wants a good deal."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/our-missiles-are-not-subject-of-negotiation-will-not-be-iran-dismisses-trump-s-desire-to-include-tehran-ballistic-missiles-in-nuclear-weapon-talks-1770814257366">‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks</a>&nbsp;Trump expressed hope for further negotiation. He claimed that Iran "wants to make a deal very badly" and is engaging much more seriously than during previous talks due to the military threat. "Last time they didn't believe I would do it," Trump said, alluding to his decision to strike Iran's nuclear facilities in June. “They overplayed their hand,” he said.<h2>‘Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation’</h2>Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran's missile pramme s not open to negotiation and would not be included in any talks. “No one can make the slightest encroachment on our missiles. Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation and will not be,” he said.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump warned Iran of consequences if nuclear deal talks fail after meeting Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. While Trump insists ballistic missiles must be included in negotiations, Iran has firmly rejected any discussion on its missile programme.

US President Donald Trump met the Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday (Feb 11), where the leaders discussed multiple topics, including the nuclear deal with Iran. The American president, via a social media post, warned Tehran that there would be consequences if no deal was signed. "I insisted that negotiations with Iran continue to see whether or not a Deal can be consummated. If it can, I let the Prime Minister know that it will be a preference. If it cannot, we will just have to see what the outcome will be," Trump wrote on Truth Social. "Last time Iran decided that they were better off not making a Deal, and they were hit with Midnight Hammer - That did not work well for them," he added. He further wrote, "Hopefully, this time they will be more reasonable and responsible. Additionally, we discussed the tremendous progress being made in Gaza and the Region in general. There is truly PEACE in the Middle East. Thank you for your attention to this matter!" Trump wants Iran's ballistic missiles as part of discussion Earlier, the American president, in an interview on Tuesday (Feb 10), said that it was a "no-brainer" that any deal with Iran would include its nuclear programme. Still, he also thought it would be possible to address Iran's ballistic missile stockpiles. When questioned about Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's take on the upcoming talks, Trump said he doesn't think Netanyahu is nervous about the US-Iran negotiations. "He also wants a deal. He wants a good deal." Also read: ‘Our missiles are not subject of negotiation, will not be’: Iran dismisses Trump’s desire to include Tehran ballistic missiles in nuke talks Trump expressed hope for further negotiation. He claimed that Iran "wants to make a deal very badly" and is engaging much more seriously than during previous talks due to the military threat. "Last time they didn't believe I would do it," Trump said, alluding to his decision to strike Iran's nuclear facilities in June. “They overplayed their hand,” he said. ‘Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation’ Meanwhile, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Tehran's missile pramme s not open to negotiation and would not be included in any talks. “No one can make the slightest encroachment on our missiles. Our missiles are not a subject of negotiation and will not be,” he said.

US President Donald Trump warned Iran of consequences if nuclear deal talks fail after meeting Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. While Trump insists ballistic missiles must be included in negotiations, Iran has firmly rejected any discussion on its missile programme.

'Last time Iran...': Trump threatens Tehran after meeting with Netanyahu, says there'll be 'no deal' consequences

The US has positioned fighter jets, missile destroyers, and carrier strike groups, including the USS Abraham Lincoln, in the Gulf amid fears of escalation.

Can USS Abraham Lincoln’s presence near Tehran hinder US–Iran nuclear talks?

Two days after talks with Washington Iran has once again said it will not get intimidated by the United States and the US naval deployment in the Gulf. Its top diplomat on Sunday said that Tehran's strength came from its ability to “say no to the great powers." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, addressing diplomats in Tehran said his country will stick to its stand of enriching Uranium.&nbsp;This has been the major bone of contention between both Iran and US. In the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict in June last year, US had bombed Iranian atomic sites.&nbsp;The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and warplanes have already been moved to the Gulf to pressurise Iran into an agreement on the issue of enriching uranium that can give Iran the capabilities of developing nuclear weapons.&nbsp;ALSO READ: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thailand-votes-as-three-way-battle-why-the-snap-election-was-called-and-who-s-the-frontrunner-1770534516134">Thailand votes as three-way battle: Why the snap election was called and who’s the frontrunner</a>&nbsp;“I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressures from others,” Araghchi said during his address to diplomats in Tehran.&nbsp;He spoke about the US fearing that Iran would build atomic bomb which actually was not the case.&nbsp;“They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb. Our atomic bomb is the power to say no to the great powers. The secret of the Islamic Republic’s power is in the power to say no to the powers," he said, as quoted by AP.&nbsp;Iran has maintained that the uranium enrichment is not for building a nuclear weapon, however, the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency question the motive as they say that Tehran had an organized military program to seek the bomb up until 2003.&nbsp;

The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and warplanes have already been moved to the Gulf to pressurise Iran into an agreement on the issue of enriching uranium.

Two days after talks with Washington Iran has once again said it will not get intimidated by the United States and the US naval deployment in the Gulf. Its top diplomat on Sunday said that Tehran's strength came from its ability to “say no to the great powers." Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, addressing diplomats in Tehran said his country will stick to its stand of enriching Uranium. This has been the major bone of contention between both Iran and US. In the 12-day Iran-Israel conflict in June last year, US had bombed Iranian atomic sites. The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and warplanes have already been moved to the Gulf to pressurise Iran into an agreement on the issue of enriching uranium that can give Iran the capabilities of developing nuclear weapons. ALSO READ: Thailand votes as three-way battle: Why the snap election was called and who’s the frontrunner “I believe the secret of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s power lies in its ability to stand against bullying, domination and pressures from others,” Araghchi said during his address to diplomats in Tehran. He spoke about the US fearing that Iran would build atomic bomb which actually was not the case. “They fear our atomic bomb, while we are not pursuing an atomic bomb. Our atomic bomb is the power to say no to the great powers. The secret of the Islamic Republic’s power is in the power to say no to the powers," he said, as quoted by AP. Iran has maintained that the uranium enrichment is not for building a nuclear weapon, however, the West and the International Atomic Energy Agency question the motive as they say that Tehran had an organized military program to seek the bomb up until 2003.

The US aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and warplanes have already been moved to the Gulf to pressurise Iran into an agreement on the issue of enriching uranium.

‘They fear our atomic bomb': Iran's Araghchi's hard line after talks with US

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 6) said that his team held "very good talks" with the Iranians during an indirect dialogue in Oman. The POTUS also said that the two sides would meet again early next week." This comes even as America announced fresh sanctions aimed at curbing Iran's oil exports.<h2>'Very good talks'</h2>Talking to reporters onboard the Air Force One en route to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump said, "We likewise had very good talks on Iran.""We're going to meet again early next week," he said. However, he ominously added that Iran will face "very steep" consequences without a deal. "If they don't make a deal, the consequences are very steep." Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-hopefully-we-won-t-have-to-use-it-trump-confirms-very-big-very-powerful-ships-heading-to-iran-1769735829348">‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran</a> Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who led Tehran's delegation, said that the talks "focused exclusively" on the Iranian nuclear programme. This programme, the West believes, is aimed at making an atomic bomb. However, Iran counters and insists it is peaceful."In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged, and the views of the other side were shared with us," Araghchi told Iranian state TV. He noted that the two sides had "agreed to continue negotiations."Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/epstein-files-trump-andrew-clinton-and-more-the-11-prominent-names-listed-in-fbi-presentation-for-alleged-abuse-of-minors-1770354719231">Epstein Files: Trump, Andrew, Clinton and more - The 11 'prominent names' listed in FBI presentation for alleged abuse of minors</a><h2>Iran won't give up on enriching uranium</h2>Talking to Reuters, a regional diplomat briefed by Iran on Friday said insisted that the Islamic Republic would not budge on its right to enrich uranium inside Iran. However, the nation was willing to discuss the "level and purity" of enrichment or a regional consortium, said the diplomat adding that Tehran believed the US negotiators "seemed to understand Iran’s stance on the enrichment … and they showed flexibility about Tehran’s demands."

US President Donald Trump said the United States held “very good talks” with Iran during indirect negotiations in Oman and confirmed that both sides plan to meet again early next week. However, he also issued an ominous warning.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Feb 6) said that his team held "very good talks" with the Iranians during an indirect dialogue in Oman. The POTUS also said that the two sides would meet again early next week." This comes even as America announced fresh sanctions aimed at curbing Iran's oil exports. 'Very good talks' Talking to reporters onboard the Air Force One en route to his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump said, "We likewise had very good talks on Iran." "We're going to meet again early next week," he said. However, he ominously added that Iran will face "very steep" consequences without a deal. "If they don't make a deal, the consequences are very steep." Also read | ‘Hopefully we won’t have to use it’: Trump confirms ‘very big, very powerful ships’ heading to Iran Meanwhile, Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who led Tehran's delegation, said that the talks "focused exclusively" on the Iranian nuclear programme. This programme, the West believes, is aimed at making an atomic bomb. However, Iran counters and insists it is peaceful. "In a very positive atmosphere, our arguments were exchanged, and the views of the other side were shared with us," Araghchi told Iranian state TV. He noted that the two sides had "agreed to continue negotiations." Also read | Epstein Files: Trump, Andrew, Clinton and more - The 11 'prominent names' listed in FBI presentation for alleged abuse of minors Iran won't give up on enriching uranium Talking to Reuters, a regional diplomat briefed by Iran on Friday said insisted that the Islamic Republic would not budge on its right to enrich uranium inside Iran. However, the nation was willing to discuss the "level and purity" of enrichment or a regional consortium, said the diplomat adding that Tehran believed the US negotiators "seemed to understand Iran’s stance on the enrichment … and they showed flexibility about Tehran’s demands."

US President Donald Trump said the United States held “very good talks” with Iran during indirect negotiations in Oman and confirmed that both sides plan to meet again early next week. However, he also issued an ominous warning.

Trump signals progress in Iran talks but ominously warns of 'steep' consequences

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly told both US and Iranian officials that he supports a nuclear deal that would stop Iran from enriching uranium altogether, according to sources familiar with recent discussions. This marks a major change in Russia’s long-held public position, which has backed Iran’s right to enrich uranium under international law. The shift is said to have come after the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel.Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/-imagine-if-it-was-biden-trump-ridiculed-for-imagining-he-saw-hegseth-live-on-tv-1752332200465">'Imagine. If. It. Was. Biden': Trump ridiculed for 'imagining' he saw Hegseth live on TV</a><h2>What is Russia telling the US and Iran?</h2>Sources told Axios that Putin shared his view directly with US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron during recent phone calls. Russia has also delivered the same message to Iranian leaders on several occasions over the past few weeks.“Putin would support zero enrichment. He encouraged the Iranians to work towards that in order to make negotiations with the Americans more favourable. The Iranians said they won’t consider it,” a European official said.Two sources also claimed that the Kremlin briefed the Israeli government on Putin’s stance. A senior Israeli official confirmed, “We know that this is what Putin told the Iranians.”<h2>Trump eyes nuclear talks, but Iran still says no</h2>The US is reportedly preparing to push for a “zero enrichment” demand if formal nuclear talks resume soon. President Trump has said publicly that he wants a new deal with Tehran, but Iran has always insisted on keeping its right to enrich uranium, even under international supervision. Despite the opposition, Russian officials have continued encouraging Iran to give ground on this issue to make talks with the US easier.<h2>Tensions between Iran and Russia rise quietly</h2>Putin’s position is seen as especially surprising given how closely Iran has worked with Russia during the Ukraine war. Tehran has supplied Moscow with drones and missiles, but Iranian officials were said to be frustrated by Russia’s limited support during the recent Israel conflict.Even so, Russia is believed to have offered to help if a deal is reached. Moscow is willing to remove Iran’s stock of highly enriched uranium and instead supply Iran with lower-grade fuel, 3.67% enriched uranium for power plants, and small amounts of 20% enriched uranium for research purposes.<h2>US and Iran look for new venue to restart talks</h2>Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff has been speaking with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about restarting nuclear negotiations. A possible meeting in Oslo had been under consideration, but both sides now seem hesitant and are looking for a different location to resume talks.

The US is reportedly preparing to push for a “zero enrichment” demand if formal nuclear talks resume soon. President Trump has said publicly that he wants a new deal with Tehran, but Iran has always insisted on keeping its right to enrich uranium.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reportedly told both US and Iranian officials that he supports a nuclear deal that would stop Iran from enriching uranium altogether, according to sources familiar with recent discussions. This marks a major change in Russia’s long-held public position, which has backed Iran’s right to enrich uranium under international law. The shift is said to have come after the recent 12-day conflict between Iran and Israel. Also read: 'Imagine. If. It. Was. Biden': Trump ridiculed for 'imagining' he saw Hegseth live on TV What is Russia telling the US and Iran? Sources told Axios that Putin shared his view directly with US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron during recent phone calls. Russia has also delivered the same message to Iranian leaders on several occasions over the past few weeks. “Putin would support zero enrichment. He encouraged the Iranians to work towards that in order to make negotiations with the Americans more favourable. The Iranians said they won’t consider it,” a European official said. Two sources also claimed that the Kremlin briefed the Israeli government on Putin’s stance. A senior Israeli official confirmed, “We know that this is what Putin told the Iranians.” Trump eyes nuclear talks, but Iran still says no The US is reportedly preparing to push for a “zero enrichment” demand if formal nuclear talks resume soon. President Trump has said publicly that he wants a new deal with Tehran, but Iran has always insisted on keeping its right to enrich uranium, even under international supervision. Despite the opposition, Russian officials have continued encouraging Iran to give ground on this issue to make talks with the US easier. Tensions between Iran and Russia rise quietly Putin’s position is seen as especially surprising given how closely Iran has worked with Russia during the Ukraine war. Tehran has supplied Moscow with drones and missiles, but Iranian officials were said to be frustrated by Russia’s limited support during the recent Israel conflict. Even so, Russia is believed to have offered to help if a deal is reached. Moscow is willing to remove Iran’s stock of highly enriched uranium and instead supply Iran with lower-grade fuel, 3.67% enriched uranium for power plants, and small amounts of 20% enriched uranium for research purposes. US and Iran look for new venue to restart talks Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff has been speaking with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi about restarting nuclear negotiations. A possible meeting in Oslo had been under consideration, but both sides now seem hesitant and are looking for a different location to resume talks.

The US is reportedly preparing to push for a “zero enrichment” demand if formal nuclear talks resume soon. President Trump has said publicly that he wants a new deal with Tehran, but Iran has always insisted on keeping its right to enrich uranium.

Is Russia turning on Iran? Putin secretly backs ‘zero enrichment’ nuclear deal

Iran on Saturday (Jul 12) said that it would resume nuclear talks with the United States if there was a guarantee of no more attacks on the Islamic Republic. In a speech to Tehran-based foreign diplomats, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Iran was ready for the talks, but added that “assurance should be provided that in case of a resumption of talks, the trend will not lead to war.” He added that the deal must also respect Tehran’s right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. Araghchi further said that cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, which was suspended following the US strikes, “will take on a new form”.&nbsp;Speaking of Israel’s 12-day military operations that targeted Iran’s key nuclear and military sites, and the US strikes on June 22, Tehran’s foreign minister said that is the US and other nations wish to resume talks with Iran, “there should be a firm guarantee that such actions will not be repeated.” He added, “The attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities has made it more difficult and complicated to achieve a solution based on negotiations.”&nbsp;<h2>Iran ‘ready’ for talks</h2>&nbsp;Araghchi further said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran remains ready to build this confidence through diplomacy but, before that, our counterparts must convince us that they want diplomacy and not that diplomacy is a cover for other goals and objectives they have.”&nbsp;He added that details of a possible resumption of talks with the US were being reviewed. This included time, location, form, ingredients, and assurances required for negotiations.&nbsp;“If negotiations are held... the subject of the negotiations will be only nuclear and creating confidence in Iran’s nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions,” Araghchi told diplomats in Tehran. “No other issues will be subject to negotiation.”&nbsp;He warned that a so-called snapback of UN sanctions could end Europe’s involvement in the issue of Tehran’s nuclear programme. As per a clause in the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and global powers, the UN can reimpose sanctions in case Tehran breaches the deal.&nbsp;<h2>Cooperation with IAEA will take ‘new form’</h2>&nbsp;Following the US strikes on Iran, Tehran suspended its ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Araghchi said that Iran’s cooperation with the agency has not stopped, “but will take on a new form.” He added that requests to monitor nuclear sites “will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis... taking into account safety and security issues.”&nbsp;<h2>Nuclear deal must respect ‘right’ to enrichment</h2>&nbsp;The foreign minister insisted that any new nuclear deal must respect its right under the Non-Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. “I would like to emphasise that in any negotiated solution, the rights of the Iranian people on the nuclear issue, including the right to enrichment, must be respected,” he said. “We will not have any agreement in which enrichment is not included.”

The foreign minister insisted that any new nuclear deal must respect its right under the Non-Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.

Iran on Saturday (Jul 12) said that it would resume nuclear talks with the United States if there was a guarantee of no more attacks on the Islamic Republic. In a speech to Tehran-based foreign diplomats, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that Iran was ready for the talks, but added that “assurance should be provided that in case of a resumption of talks, the trend will not lead to war.” He added that the deal must also respect Tehran’s right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. Araghchi further said that cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, which was suspended following the US strikes, “will take on a new form”. Speaking of Israel’s 12-day military operations that targeted Iran’s key nuclear and military sites, and the US strikes on June 22, Tehran’s foreign minister said that is the US and other nations wish to resume talks with Iran, “there should be a firm guarantee that such actions will not be repeated.” He added, “The attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities has made it more difficult and complicated to achieve a solution based on negotiations.” Iran ‘ready’ for talks Araghchi further said, “The Islamic Republic of Iran remains ready to build this confidence through diplomacy but, before that, our counterparts must convince us that they want diplomacy and not that diplomacy is a cover for other goals and objectives they have.” He added that details of a possible resumption of talks with the US were being reviewed. This included time, location, form, ingredients, and assurances required for negotiations. “If negotiations are held... the subject of the negotiations will be only nuclear and creating confidence in Iran’s nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions,” Araghchi told diplomats in Tehran. “No other issues will be subject to negotiation.” He warned that a so-called snapback of UN sanctions could end Europe’s involvement in the issue of Tehran’s nuclear programme. As per a clause in the 2015 nuclear agreement between Iran and global powers, the UN can reimpose sanctions in case Tehran breaches the deal. Cooperation with IAEA will take ‘new form’ Following the US strikes on Iran, Tehran suspended its ties with the International Atomic Energy Agency. Araghchi said that Iran’s cooperation with the agency has not stopped, “but will take on a new form.” He added that requests to monitor nuclear sites “will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis... taking into account safety and security issues.” Nuclear deal must respect ‘right’ to enrichment The foreign minister insisted that any new nuclear deal must respect its right under the Non-Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes. “I would like to emphasise that in any negotiated solution, the rights of the Iranian people on the nuclear issue, including the right to enrichment, must be respected,” he said. “We will not have any agreement in which enrichment is not included.”

The foreign minister insisted that any new nuclear deal must respect its right under the Non-Proliferation Treaty to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes.

‘Assurance should be provided’: Iran ‘ready’ to resume nuclear talks with US on THIS condition

Iran wants a guarantee that the US will not launch any more military strikes when nuclear talks are going on, its foreign minister has said. In an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde, Abbas Aragachi categorically refused to negotiate on Iran's ballistic missile programme, calling it purely 'defensive'. He also spoke about why Iran enriched uranium to near-weapons grade, while giving a religious reason for why it would not develop a nuclear weapon. Abbas was also asked about whether Iran will leave the Non-Proliferation Treaty or NPT.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Iran ready for nuclear dialogue with the US, but on this condition</h2>Aragachi said Iran is open to nuclear dialogue with Washington, but only if the US offers talks. He wanted guarantees against military attacks by the US, insisting on mutual respect and 'acknowledgement of past mistakes'. He said the US attacks on its nuclear sites in June could have caused environmental damage and hazards to human health.&nbsp; "It is...essential that responsibility for these mistakes is acknowledged and that a clear sign of a change in behaviour is observed. It must be guaranteed that in the future, during negotiations, the US does not launch a military attack," Aragachi told Le Monde. He revealed that backchannel diplomacy is currently active via mediators. He demanded that the US must acknowledge responsibility for violating the JCPoA, the Iranian nuclear deal.<h2>Nuclear site attacks: Iran to seek compensation for damages</h2>Aragachi said Iran may seek compensation for damages caused by US-Israel strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, even as he played down the effectiveness of the strikes by US B2 bombers.Aragachi said that while US President Donald Trump claimed Iran’s nuclear programme was 'destroyed' in the June strikes, UN nuclear agency IAEA's chief, Rafael Grossi, said it was only 'delayed by months'. He called the attacks on IAEA-supervised sites a violation of international law, and an irreversible blow to the non-proliferation system.<h2>Iran has fatwa against nuclear weapons: Aragachi</h2>Aragachi repeated the Iranian line that its nuclear development is 'peaceful' and for energy, medicine and agriculture.He denied any military ambitions for the programme, citing a fatwa or religious decree against nuclear weapons.<h2>‘No compromise on Iranian ballistic missile programme’</h2>Aragachi insisted that Iran's ballistic missile programme is 'non-negotiable'. It's defensive in nature and 'limited in range', he added while slamming 'Western hypocrisy' for tolerating missile development in other countries.<h2>What Iranian foreign minister said on leaving NPT</h2>Aragachi told the paper that Iran has no intention of leaving the Non-Proliferation Treaty in spite of the recent ‘provocations’ by the US and Israel.He reaffirmed commitment to international nuclear norms, but said Iran reserves the right to enrich uranium under the NPT.&nbsp; He said the past enrichment of Uranium to 20 per cent and 60 per cent was 'a response to breaches of agreements', and not for military purposes.Iran is willing to negotiate enrichment levels within a balanced and reciprocal deal, he added.&nbsp;

Abbas Aragachi categorically refused to negotiate on Iran's ballistic missile programme, calling it purely 'defensive'. He also spoke about why Iran enriched uranium to near-weapons grade, while giving a religious reason for why it would not develop a nuclear weapon.

Iran wants a guarantee that the US will not launch any more military strikes when nuclear talks are going on, its foreign minister has said. In an interview with the French newspaper Le Monde, Abbas Aragachi categorically refused to negotiate on Iran's ballistic missile programme, calling it purely 'defensive'. He also spoke about why Iran enriched uranium to near-weapons grade, while giving a religious reason for why it would not develop a nuclear weapon. Abbas was also asked about whether Iran will leave the Non-Proliferation Treaty or NPT. Iran ready for nuclear dialogue with the US, but on this condition Aragachi said Iran is open to nuclear dialogue with Washington, but only if the US offers talks. He wanted guarantees against military attacks by the US, insisting on mutual respect and 'acknowledgement of past mistakes'. He said the US attacks on its nuclear sites in June could have caused environmental damage and hazards to human health. "It is...essential that responsibility for these mistakes is acknowledged and that a clear sign of a change in behaviour is observed. It must be guaranteed that in the future, during negotiations, the US does not launch a military attack," Aragachi told Le Monde. He revealed that backchannel diplomacy is currently active via mediators. He demanded that the US must acknowledge responsibility for violating the JCPoA, the Iranian nuclear deal. Nuclear site attacks: Iran to seek compensation for damages Aragachi said Iran may seek compensation for damages caused by US-Israel strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, even as he played down the effectiveness of the strikes by US B2 bombers. Aragachi said that while US President Donald Trump claimed Iran’s nuclear programme was 'destroyed' in the June strikes, UN nuclear agency IAEA's chief, Rafael Grossi, said it was only 'delayed by months'. He called the attacks on IAEA-supervised sites a violation of international law, and an irreversible blow to the non-proliferation system. Iran has fatwa against nuclear weapons: Aragachi Aragachi repeated the Iranian line that its nuclear development is 'peaceful' and for energy, medicine and agriculture. He denied any military ambitions for the programme, citing a fatwa or religious decree against nuclear weapons. ‘No compromise on Iranian ballistic missile programme’ Aragachi insisted that Iran's ballistic missile programme is 'non-negotiable'. It's defensive in nature and 'limited in range', he added while slamming 'Western hypocrisy' for tolerating missile development in other countries. What Iranian foreign minister said on leaving NPT Aragachi told the paper that Iran has no intention of leaving the Non-Proliferation Treaty in spite of the recent ‘provocations’ by the US and Israel. He reaffirmed commitment to international nuclear norms, but said Iran reserves the right to enrich uranium under the NPT. He said the past enrichment of Uranium to 20 per cent and 60 per cent was 'a response to breaches of agreements', and not for military purposes. Iran is willing to negotiate enrichment levels within a balanced and reciprocal deal, he added.

Abbas Aragachi categorically refused to negotiate on Iran's ballistic missile programme, calling it purely 'defensive'. He also spoke about why Iran enriched uranium to near-weapons grade, while giving a religious reason for why it would not develop a nuclear weapon.

'No US military strike during'...Iran wants a guarantee, and said this about leaving Non-Proliferation Treaty

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jun 27) angrily rejected media reports suggesting his administration had considered offering Iran as much as $30 billion in economic incentives to build civilian nuclear facilities in exchange for halting uranium enrichment. Slamming reports by what Trump labelled as "fake news media", Trump questioned who was the "sleazebag" saying he wants to give Iran $30 billion to build non-nuclear facilities. "Never heard of this ridiculous idea," Trump posted late Friday on Truth Social. On Thursday, CNN, citing anonymous sources, reported that the Trump administration was exploring economic incentives for Tehran. The report was also carried by NBC News on Friday.<h2>Ridiculous 'hoax'</h2>"Who in the Fake News Media is the SleazeBag saying that 'President Trump wants to give Iran $30 Billion to build non-military Nuclear facilities.' Never heard of this ridiculous idea," Trump wrote on Truth Social late on Friday, calling the reports a "HOAX.""It’s just another HOAX put out by the Fake News in order to demean. These people are SICK!!!" he said.His comments come in response to reports by the reputed news outlets like CNN and NBC News, which, citing multiple sources, claimed that preliminary proposals were floated by US officials in recent days as part of ongoing indirect talks between Washington and Tehran. Those discussions, which began in April, are aimed at finding a diplomatic path forward for Iran's nuclear programme, which Iran says is peaceful and the US says must be prevented from reaching weapons capability.<h2>What did the reports claim the US was offering?</h2>According to the reports, one proposal involved unfreezing Iranian assets — potentially totalling up to $30 billion — in exchange for a freeze on uranium enrichment, a central demand of Western negotiators.The controversy comes just days after Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel following a brief but dangerous 12-day war that erupted on June 13. That conflict began when Israel launched a surprise wave of airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, prompting Iran to retaliate with ballistic missile strikes on a US airbase in Qatar. No casualties were reported.The US then entered the conflict directly, striking Iran's nuclear infrastructure with bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles. According to the Pentagon, six Massive Ordnance Penetrator bombs were dropped on the fortified Fordow facility, while dozens of submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles targeted Natanz and Isfahan.

Slamming reports by what Trump labelled as "fake news media", Trump questioned who was the "sleazebag" saying he wants to give Iran $30 billion to build non-nuclear facilities.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (Jun 27) angrily rejected media reports suggesting his administration had considered offering Iran as much as $30 billion in economic incentives to build civilian nuclear facilities in exchange for halting uranium enrichment. Slamming reports by what Trump labelled as "fake news media", Trump questioned who was the "sleazebag" saying he wants to give Iran $30 billion to build non-nuclear facilities. "Never heard of this ridiculous idea," Trump posted late Friday on Truth Social. On Thursday, CNN, citing anonymous sources, reported that the Trump administration was exploring economic incentives for Tehran. The report was also carried by NBC News on Friday. Ridiculous 'hoax' "Who in the Fake News Media is the SleazeBag saying that 'President Trump wants to give Iran $30 Billion to build non-military Nuclear facilities.' Never heard of this ridiculous idea," Trump wrote on Truth Social late on Friday, calling the reports a "HOAX." "It’s just another HOAX put out by the Fake News in order to demean. These people are SICK!!!" he said. His comments come in response to reports by the reputed news outlets like CNN and NBC News, which, citing multiple sources, claimed that preliminary proposals were floated by US officials in recent days as part of ongoing indirect talks between Washington and Tehran. Those discussions, which began in April, are aimed at finding a diplomatic path forward for Iran's nuclear programme, which Iran says is peaceful and the US says must be prevented from reaching weapons capability. What did the reports claim the US was offering? According to the reports, one proposal involved unfreezing Iranian assets — potentially totalling up to $30 billion — in exchange for a freeze on uranium enrichment, a central demand of Western negotiators. The controversy comes just days after Trump announced a ceasefire between Iran and Israel following a brief but dangerous 12-day war that erupted on June 13. That conflict began when Israel launched a surprise wave of airstrikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites, prompting Iran to retaliate with ballistic missile strikes on a US airbase in Qatar. No casualties were reported. The US then entered the conflict directly, striking Iran's nuclear infrastructure with bunker-buster bombs and cruise missiles. According to the Pentagon, six Massive Ordnance Penetrator bombs were dropped on the fortified Fordow facility, while dozens of submarine-launched Tomahawk missiles targeted Natanz and Isfahan.

Slamming reports by what Trump labelled as "fake news media", Trump questioned who was the "sleazebag" saying he wants to give Iran $30 billion to build non-nuclear facilities.

'Sleazebag hoax': Trump explodes over $30 billion nuclear incentive for Iran report

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 27) stressed that he saved Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei from a very "ugly and ignominious death", adding that he knew exactly where the Iranian leader was sheltered amid the continuous assassination threats from Israel during the 12-day Israel-Iran war.Calling him the "so-called Supreme Leader", Trump lambasted on Truth Social, saying that why would the Iranian leader so "blatantly and foolishly that he won the War with Israel" when he knows that it is a lie."As a man of great faith, he is not supposed to lie. His Country was decimated, his three evil Nuclear Sites were OBLITERATED, and I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered, and would not let Israel, or the U.S. Armed Forces, by far the Greatest and Most Powerful in the World, terminate his life. I SAVED HIM FROM A VERY UGLY AND IGNOMINIOUS DEATH, and he does not have to say, "THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP!"," the US president said.He continued that in the "final act of the war", Trump demanded Israel to bring back a very large group of planes, which were heading directly to Tehran for "perhaps the final knockout"."Tremendous damage would have ensued, and many Iranians would have been killed. It was going to be the biggest attack of the War, by far. During the last few days, I was working on the possible removal of sanctions, and other things, which would have given a much better chance to Iran at a full, fast, and complete recovery - The sanctions are BITING!," he added.With even more frustration, the US president said, that, "Instead I get hit with a statement of anger, hatred, and disgust, and immediately dropped all work on sanction relief, and more."He pressed that Iran has to get back into the World Order flow, warning that things will only get worse for them.Further, explaining what Iran has become, Trump said that they are always "so angry, hostile, and unhappy, and look at what it has gotten them - A burned out, blown up Country, with no future, a decimated Military, a horrible Economy, and DEATH all around them."He further warned that it will "only get worse!", hoping that the leadership of Iran would realize that "you often get more with HONEY than you do with VINEGAR."

Calling him the "so-called Supreme Leader", Trump lambasted on Truth Social, saying that why would the Iranian leader so "blatantly and foolishly that he won the War with Israel" when he knows that it is a lie.

US President Donald Trump on Friday (June 27) stressed that he saved Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei from a very "ugly and ignominious death", adding that he knew exactly where the Iranian leader was sheltered amid the continuous assassination threats from Israel during the 12-day Israel-Iran war. Calling him the "so-called Supreme Leader", Trump lambasted on Truth Social, saying that why would the Iranian leader so "blatantly and foolishly that he won the War with Israel" when he knows that it is a lie. "As a man of great faith, he is not supposed to lie. His Country was decimated, his three evil Nuclear Sites were OBLITERATED, and I knew EXACTLY where he was sheltered, and would not let Israel, or the U.S. Armed Forces, by far the Greatest and Most Powerful in the World, terminate his life. I SAVED HIM FROM A VERY UGLY AND IGNOMINIOUS DEATH, and he does not have to say, "THANK YOU, PRESIDENT TRUMP!"," the US president said. He continued that in the "final act of the war", Trump demanded Israel to bring back a very large group of planes, which were heading directly to Tehran for "perhaps the final knockout". "Tremendous damage would have ensued, and many Iranians would have been killed. It was going to be the biggest attack of the War, by far. During the last few days, I was working on the possible removal of sanctions, and other things, which would have given a much better chance to Iran at a full, fast, and complete recovery - The sanctions are BITING!," he added. With even more frustration, the US president said, that, "Instead I get hit with a statement of anger, hatred, and disgust, and immediately dropped all work on sanction relief, and more." He pressed that Iran has to get back into the World Order flow, warning that things will only get worse for them. Further, explaining what Iran has become, Trump said that they are always "so angry, hostile, and unhappy, and look at what it has gotten them - A burned out, blown up Country, with no future, a decimated Military, a horrible Economy, and DEATH all around them." He further warned that it will "only get worse!", hoping that the leadership of Iran would realize that "you often get more with HONEY than you do with VINEGAR."

Calling him the "so-called Supreme Leader", Trump lambasted on Truth Social, saying that why would the Iranian leader so "blatantly and foolishly that he won the War with Israel" when he knows that it is a lie.

'SAVED HIM FROM VERY UGLY, IGNOMINIOUS DEATH': Trump says he knew where Khamenei was hidden, warns 'it'll only get worse'