Trump Warns Iran of Potential US Strike Amid Nuclear Negotiations

President Donald Trump has issued a renewed caution to Iran, stating that the United States might launch a significant attack if diplomatic talks collapse. Speaking to Fox News’ Trace Gallagher, Trump emphasized that the U.S. is resolute in preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon, saying, “If they back out again, they’re going to get hit really hard. They know that. I have no choice.” Military action remains a possibility if diplomacy fails, he explained.

During the interview, Trump remarked, “The hard hit is yet to come, and hopefully we won’t have to use it.” His comments followed a decision to postpone a military strike on Iran that was planned to be the largest since World War II. This pause in action came after Tehran and other Middle Eastern nations requested additional time to negotiate regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz and addressing Iran’s nuclear program.

“We were going to a tremendous attack, the biggest since World War II,” Trump said, recalling how he was approached with a request for dialogue. “And they called me and said very politely, ‘Please, can we talk?’ And I said, ‘Yes, we can talk. Let’s get it done.'” Earlier, Trump mentioned that discussions to reopen the Strait and limit Iran’s nuclear ambitions were “imminent.”

Iranian authorities have publicly denied any direct discussions with the United States, asserting that talks occur through mediators in Oman. The Associated Press noted progress between Iranian and Omani officials towards a potential agreement to reopen the strait, though discussions are ongoing.

Trump described the negotiations as “very good” despite Iran’s public denials, stating, “They don’t like to admit that, but, well, you know, it’s a little bit disconcerting.” He added, “It’s just such a lie. But it doesn’t matter. That’s talk. The only thing that matters is action. And they want to make a deal. We’ll see what happens. If they don’t make a deal, it’s going to be too bad.”

When questioned on the potential abandonment of talks, Trump expressed patience, saying, “I have plenty of time.” He criticized previous administrations for failing to resolve the issue, singling out former President Barack Obama’s nuclear agreement as ineffective.

Trump acknowledged the negotiations with Iran as the “last chance” to avoid an escalation in military action. The focus is initially on reopening the Strait of Hormuz before moving to Iran’s nuclear program.