Trump Expects New Talks With Iran This Week Amid Regional Mediation
US President Donald Trump announced that new indirect talks with Iran could take place this week. While Qatar mediates efforts to resolve disputes over the Strait of Hormuz and nuclear issues, Trump maintains that military options remain under consideration.
US-Iran Talks Expected
US President Donald Trump stated during a telephone interview with Channel 12 that he expects further talks with Iran to take place later this week, in a renewed effort to reach an agreement. According to Trump, Tehran wants a deal, but not the kind he is willing to make. When asked if he is considering renewing military strikes against Iran, the president said he is always thinking about it.
Strategic Chokepoints and Regional Mediation
Qatar and other regional mediators are attempting to revive negotiations between the United States and Iran, though gaps between the parties on core issues remain very wide. While Iran wants to focus talks on the Strait of Hormuz and the removal of the American naval blockade, the Trump administration demands that Tehran make significant concessions regarding its nuclear program. Two regional sources confirmed Trump's remarks, stating they anticipate another round of indirect talks this week, potentially as early as Monday.
We are always thinking about potential military actions, but diplomatic channels remain active through Qatari mediation.
Oil Transit and Diplomatic Maneuvers
Trump noted that the US military is currently moving large quantities of oil through the Strait of Hormuz, highlighting that over 20 million barrels passed through the strait over the weekend. An American security source confirmed that 22 million barrels of oil were transferred through the strait on Friday night.
American envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner recently held indirect negotiations with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York. Qatari officials participated in the talks, facilitating messages between the delegations. Iran proposed reopening the strait and resuming nuclear talks within a week, provided the US lifts the naval blockade, cancels oil sanctions, and renews a comprehensive regional ceasefire. Trump publicly stated on Saturday that he rejected the Iranian proposal, yet mediators continue their diplomatic push.
