Trump Claims Iran Seeks Deal Amid Escalating Tensions
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a decision to impose strict measures against Iran, alleging that Tehran has failed to adhere to its commitments. Trump further claimed that Iranians are amenable to reaching an agreement, suggesting that Washington would explore possibilities for such a deal with Tehran.
This assertion follows a statement from Ismail Baqaee, Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Responding to inquiries about U.S. officials’ claims concerning negotiations and a ceasefire, Baqaee stated, “We have not made any request for negotiations with the United States. However, in line with our consistent responsible approach, we did not reject a request from a regional mediator to visit Iran and discuss the latest situation.” He added, “This visit took place today in Mashhad, and we conveyed our viewpoints and perspectives to the Qatari side.”
Trump also made unsubstantiated remarks, predicting that “Iranians will soon be defeated.” Many analysts, however, believe that the U.S. has achieved no gains even with the potential threat of military action against Iran.
In related developments, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported that Trump had previously stated he would open the Strait of Hormuz, but it has become apparent that Iran is the one controlling the situation. While the U.S. President has repeatedly claimed that ships can freely navigate the Strait of Hormuz amidst regional tensions, even proposing unfeasible plans such as U.S. military escorts, the Islamic Republic of Iran, by asserting its sovereignty over the Strait and designating safe passage, directs vessel traffic as it deems appropriate.
The U.S. President continued his assertions, stating, “It is better for the Iranians to amend their behavior, and I have no interest in setting deadlines.” These claims by Trump emerge despite the U.S. repeatedly violating a memorandum of understanding brokered by Pakistan by initiating military attacks on southern Iranian regions and reimposing a naval blockade and new sanctions.
A spokesperson for the White House, in comments to Reuters, also claimed that the Strait of Hormuz remains open and that oil transit continues despite recent attacks on shipping. The spokesperson further alleged that Iran has engaged in international terrorism by attacking civilian commercial vessels.
The statements from Trump and the White House spokesperson come as several maritime officials informed Reuters that ships are avoiding routes utilized by American forces in the Strait of Hormuz. According to these sources, “Iran’s attacks have raised concerns about the security of this waterway.”
