WASHINGTON (MNN); US President Donald Trump on Thursday rejected claims that he was eager to secure a deal with Iran, insisting he was “not desperate” as he balanced strong warnings with diplomatic messaging.
Speaking during his first cabinet meeting at the White House since the start of the US-Israeli military campaign, Trump claimed Iran was under heavy pressure and “begging” for an agreement, despite Tehran’s denials.
“I’m the opposite of desperate. I don’t care,” Trump told reporters, dismissing media reports suggesting he was seeking a quick exit from the conflict.
During the televised session, Trump alternated between threats to intensify military action and assertions that Iran was close to conceding.
He reiterated that Iran wanted a deal due to the impact of ongoing strikes, while also warning that failure to reach an agreement could lead to further escalation.
Trump also claimed that Iran had allowed multiple oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a goodwill gesture, presenting it as a sign of seriousness in negotiations.
At the same time, he suggested that taking control of Iran’s oil resources remained a possible option, adding to uncertainty about Washington’s long-term objectives.
The US president acknowledged that a deadline set for Iran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz was approaching but said he had not yet decided whether to extend it.
Meanwhile, US envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that Washington had shared a 15-point proposal with Iran through Pakistan and noted signs that a deal could still be reached.
Trump also criticised NATO allies for declining to support efforts to secure the Strait of Hormuz, expressing frustration over what he described as a lack of reciprocity.
Senior US officials echoed his stance, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth backing continued pressure on Iran while expressing hope for a negotiated settlement.
