File photo: US President Donald Trump (Photo source: Associated Press)
US President Donald Trump said he was “not happy” with Iran but still wanted a deal, even as Washington continued its massive military buildup in the country. middle East.Trump told reporters he expected more talks with Iran on Friday. “Not happy with Iran, but expect more talks on Friday,” he said, according to Reuters.He made clear that his core demand remained unchanged: “Iran cannot have nuclear weapons.”
“Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to”
When asked directly whether he would use force against Iran, Trump expressed reluctance but did not rule out the possibility.“Don’t want to, but sometimes you have to,” he said.Tensions are rising after Washington and Tehran held their latest round of nuclear talks in Geneva. While Oman-brokered talks have reportedly made some progress, no deal has yet been announced.Trump has repeatedly threatened military action if Iran refuses to agree to a far-reaching deal to curb its nuclear program. Iran insists it has the right to enrich uranium for peaceful purposes and denies seeking nuclear weapons.
Diplomacy continues amid military buildup
Despite the tough rhetoric, diplomatic channels remain open.Secretary of State of the United States Marco Rubio The State Department said he will travel to Israel on Monday and Tuesday to discuss “a range of regional priorities, including Iran, Lebanon, and ongoing efforts to implement President Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza.”The visit comes as the United States builds up important military assets in the region. One aircraft carrier is already deployed in the Middle East and another is on its way there, along with more aircraft and warships.Iran has warned it would retaliate against U.S. forces in the region, including those stationed at U.S. bases with Arab allies, if attacked.
Embassy departure and travel warnings
The U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem has authorized the voluntary departure of non-essential personnel and their families. U.S. Ambassador Mike Huckabee urged staff members who wished to leave to do so immediately, citing an email sent to The Associated Press.“Those who wish to receive AD should do so today,” Huckabee wrote, referring to “authorization to leave.”The email warned that while outbound flights may continue for a few days, “probably not”.Other countries have taken similar precautions. The UK has temporarily withdrawn its embassy staff from Iran, and the embassy continues to work remotely. Australia has directed the families of its officials in Israel to leave, while China and several European countries have advised citizens to avoid traveling to Iran.
Nuclear issues and access stagnation
Meanwhile, a confidential report from the U.N. nuclear watchdog seen by The Associated Press said Iran has not allowed inspectors access to sensitive nuclear facilities since they were heavily bombed during a 12-day conflict launched by Israel last June.As a result, the agency said it could not verify Iran’s claims that it had halted uranium enrichment following the U.S. and Israeli attacks.Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Thursday that “our side has made it clear what needs to happen,” without elaborating. Tehran has long demanded sanctions be lifted in exchange for curbs — but not a complete halt — to its nuclear activities.Technical discussions are scheduled to take place in Vienna next week. U.S. Vice President Vance is also expected to meet Omani Foreign Minister Badr Busaidi in Washington, and Muscat will continue to mediate between the two sides.
