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World
Trump's administration feels stronger in negotiations with Iran due to reduced Iranian control over the Strait of Hormuz and recent diplomatic developments.
US President Donald Trump has stated nearly 40 times that the United States and Iran are close to reaching an agreement, despite skepticism from some American and Middle Eastern officials regarding these repeated claims, given Iran's firm stance on its core nuclear ambitions.
On Friday, the United States, Iran, and the main mediator Pakistan agreed that the "peace agreement to end the war is almost complete," although the preliminary deal will only mark the beginning of the more challenging phase of nuclear negotiations in the coming months.
The Wall Street Journal reported on factors contributing to the Trump administration's perception of holding a stronger negotiating position this time, citing a senior US administration official.
The official explained that this confidence stems from "Iran's diminished control over the Strait of Hormuz and the increased volume of oil passing through the strait in recent weeks."
He also noted that President Trump personally amended the language concerning Iran's commitment to destroy and dispose of enriched materials.
According to the official, the past 24 hours have seen a state of "complete mobilization," with the president maintaining "close contact" with senior members of his leadership team.
A senior US official confirmed to Reuters that "the agreement meets Trump's core objectives and places the negotiations in a very favorable position."
From the White House perspective, reaching an agreement would end a period during which Trump repeatedly threatened to resume attacks on Iran but generally refrained to allow more time for negotiations.
US officials stated that President Trump experienced significant frustration over the slow pace of talks but did not want to restart conflict with Iran, according to the report.
Initially, the White House sought a deal that would permanently end Iran's nuclear activities, curb its ballistic missile program, and halt its support for Iran-aligned militias.
An American official indicated that Tehran would gain broader economic benefits if it took steps toward achieving all these goals. He added, "If it delivers the nuclear materials as promised, it will receive something.
If Iran dismantles its nuclear programs or facilities, it will receive something else. And if it genuinely commits to regional peace and stability, it will gain additional benefits."
