Trump Says U.S. Holding “Very Good” Talks with Iran, Warns of “Strong Strike” if Hormuz Not Opened

Former U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that the United States is conducting “very good” talks with Iran. He expressed hope that Washington would not have to deliver a “strong strike” against Tehran, using those exact words.

In an interview with the American television network Fox News, Trump said the Strait of Hormuz will open soon—or else Iran will face a strong strike. He added that the U.S. had been prepared to launch the largest attack on Iran since World War II but instead opted to request negotiations.

Trump said during the same interview that Iran seeks an agreement but does not want to publicly acknowledge that talks are underway. He asserted there remains ample time to reach a deal and added, “We’ll see what happens.”

He emphasized that the situation would become “extremely bad” for Iran if no agreement is reached. Trump affirmed that the world would be “different” if Iran acquired a nuclear weapon—and that such an outcome “will not be allowed.”

A new poll shows growing Democratic support and declining popularity for Trump.