Trump Says Iran Is ‘Negotiating on Fumes’ as U.S.-Iran Deal Remains Unclear
President Donald Trump said Tuesday that Iran is “negotiating on fumes” as diplomatic efforts to end the ongoing conflict continue without a finalized agreement.
Trump made the remarks during a Cabinet meeting while discussing the status of negotiations involving Iran’s nuclear program, sanctions policy, and security in the Strait of Hormuz. He argued Tehran is under growing economic and military pressure but said current proposals still fall short of what the United States is willing to accept.
“We’re not satisfied,” Trump said, while insisting Iran wants a deal because its position has weakened during months of conflict and economic strain.
One of the largest unresolved disputes involves Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. U.S. officials have reportedly discussed options including dilution or transfer to a third country, though Trump indicated he does not want Russia or China controlling the material.
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Another major issue is the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global shipping corridor that has remained central to negotiations. Trump said the waterway must remain open and internationally controlled under any agreement.
The White House also pushed back against reports from Iranian-linked outlets suggesting a final agreement framework had already been reached, calling the reported memorandum a fabrication.
The negotiations come as regional instability continues to affect oil markets, military operations, and broader U.S. foreign policy strategy in the Middle East.
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