US President Donald Trump has expressed confidence that the conflict with Iran will be won "very soon". In an interview with Fox News, Trump stated that an end to the confrontation would cause global oil prices to fall sharply. He reiterated that denying Tehran a nuclear weapon is the primary American objective. Trump also mentioned that the conflict's end would lead to a significant decrease in oil prices, returning to what they were before the war.
Trump refused to rule out the possibility of military strikes against Iran before the upcoming midterm elections. When asked specifically about the possibility of pre-midterm strikes, Trump declined to take the option off the table, stating "I don't want to say that. I don't want to say that. I mean, it's possible, but I just don't want to say that". This response has raised concerns about the potential for further escalation in the conflict.
Trump emphasized that the core focus of US policy is to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon. He stated that nuclear deterrence is "key to the whole thing". The US President also claimed that the US is making progress on both military and economic fronts, asserting that Iran's economy has been completely dismantled. According to Trump, the value of Iran's currency is "valueless" and the country has inflation of close to 300%.
Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi responded to Trump's comments, stating that Iran is ready for a "doomsday war" with the US. In an interview with NBC News, Araghchi said that Iran is fully prepared for the war to resume and stands firm in the face of any new aggression. He also expressed willingness to engage in diplomacy, stating that it is up to President Trump to choose.
Araghchi pointed out that Trump's public rejection of Tehran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz had not been formally communicated to Tehran through designated diplomatic channels. He reiterated that Iran remains willing to reopen the maritime corridor as part of a negotiated settlement to end the hostilities. Araghchi also stated that Iran wants its frozen assets released and to be able to sell its oil.
The conflict between the US and Iran has been ongoing, with tensions escalating in recent months. Trump's comments have raised concerns about the potential for further escalation, particularly in the lead-up to the midterm elections. The situation remains volatile, with both sides appearing to be prepared for further conflict.
The international community remains watchful, with many countries calling for a peaceful resolution to the conflict. The situation in Iran and the US's stance towards the country continue to be closely monitored.
Key points
- US President Donald Trump expresses confidence in swift victory over Iran.
- Trump refuses to rule out pre-midterm strikes against Iran.
- Iran's Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi states that Iran is ready for a "doomsday war" with the US.
