WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump on Thursday denied being “desperate” to reach a deal with Iran, balancing threats with diplomatic signals as he seeks to conclude U.S. involvement in the Middle East. Trump asserted that Iran is “beat to shit” and “begging” for a deal, despite denials from Tehran.
Trump Denies Seeking Quick Exit
Trump rejected reports suggesting he is actively seeking an exit strategy, even as oil prices rise and political pressure mounts to avoid a prolonged conflict in the Middle East. “I read a story today that I’m desperate to make a deal,” Trump told reporters. “I’m the opposite of desperate. I don’t care.”
The president has repeatedly stated that Iran desires a deal, coinciding with indications he is pursuing a swift resolution to the conflict. However, Iran maintains there are no direct negotiations currently underway.
During a 90-minute televised cabinet meeting, Trump alternated between threats to “obliterate” Iran and claims that the country is on the verge of surrender. “They want to make a deal. The reason they want to make a deal is they have been just beat to shit,” Trump said.
Trump stated the U.S.-Israeli offensive, which began on February 28, is “extremely, really, a lot ahead of schedule,” referencing an initial timeframe of four to six weeks.
He noted that Iran allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as a “present,” signaling its willingness to negotiate an end to the conflict. However, Trump also suggested taking control of Iran’s oil resources remains an “option,” similar to the situation in Venezuela.
Trump’s comments are expected to intensify speculation regarding his objectives and timeline for the war. Discussions between the U.S. and Iran have been uncertain since Trump initially announced them on Monday and postponed a threatened attack on Iran’s power plants.
Trump’s deadline for Iran to unblock the Strait of Hormuz or face attacks on its energy network is set to expire Friday, but he indicated he is unsure if he will extend it. “In Trump time, a day, you know what it is? That’s an eternity,” he said.
Global envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed that Washington sent a 15-point “action list” to Iran via Pakistan and reported “strong signs” that Iran might be open to a deal.
Trump also criticized NATO allies for declining to assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, through which approximately a fifth of global crude oil and liquefied natural gas passes. He dismissed British aircraft carriers offered as assistance as “toys” compared to U.S. vessels.
“I’ve done a great favor for the world. The world has not been reciprocal,” Trump said. “I believe that’s going to cost them dearly.”
Top U.S. diplomat Marco Rubio alluded to the rap group Public Enemy, stating that “every day, the Department of War lets the drummer get wicked over every portion of Iran.” Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth praised Trump for “doing the work of the free world.”
“We pray for a deal, and we welcome a deal,” Hegseth said. “But in the meantime…the Department of War will continue negotiating with bombs.”
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