U.S. President Donald Trump stated negotiations with Iran are progressing favorably, with Iran agreeing to most of a 15-point U.S. proposal, but cautioned that failure remains possible.
Trump Optimistic on Iran Negotiations
President Trump announced that negotiations with Iran are “going extremely well,” both directly and through intermediaries, expressing hope for a swift agreement. He indicated Iran has accepted the majority of a 15-point American proposal.
Trump reported that Iran has agreed to most of the offered points, stating, “They are agreeing with us on the plan. We offered 15 things and they agreed to most of it.” He added that further requests would be made.
Iranian Tanker Transit and Leadership
As a gesture of goodwill, Iran allowed 10 tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz last week and has agreed to release another 20.
Trump revealed that Mohammad Ghalibaf, the speaker of the Iranian parliament, is the primary negotiator for Iran. He also stated that the new supreme leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, is seriously injured but alive.
“Change of Regime” and Potential Military Action
Trump asserted that a “change of regime” has effectively occurred in Iran following the elimination of key figures within the Iranian government, describing the new leadership as “very reasonable.”
Despite his optimism, Trump acknowledged that “with Iran, you never know” and that talks could ultimately fail. He declined to comment on the possibility of deploying ground troops to Iran but mentioned having “many alternatives.”
In an interview with the Financial Times, Trump indicated consideration of a U.S. military occupation of Khark Island, a key Iranian oil export hub, and suggested the U.S. should “take” Iranian oil, which he believes could be done easily, though it might require occupation.
Threats Regarding Strait of Hormuz and Troop Deployments
Trump warned that if Iran imposes fees on ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, the U.S. “will do what it has to do,” claiming the U.S. could close the strait “in two minutes.”
U.S. Military Buildup in the Middle East
According to the New York Times, several hundred special forces soldiers have arrived in the Middle East. Additionally, a marine expeditionary unit and soldiers from the 82nd Airborne Division have been deployed. The Washington Post reported that the U.S. is planning potential land operations lasting several weeks, though a final decision has not been made.
