Trump pushes for nuclear talks with Iran amid intensified US sanctions
US President Donald Trump confirmed in a Friday interview with Fox Business Network that he has sent a letter to Iran’s leader, urging Tehran to engage in negotiations over its nuclear program. Trump expressed optimism about the possibility of talks, stating, “I hope you’re going to negotiate because it’s going to be a lot better for Iran.”
However, he also issued a warning, emphasizing that preventing Iran from acquiring another nuclear weapon is a priority.
US tightens economic pressure on Iran
Trump’s comments come as his administration intensifies economic sanctions and enforcement measures aimed at crippling Iran’s oil exports.
On Thursday, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent outlined the government’s updated “maximum pressure” campaign, stating that the objective is to push Iran’s economy to the brink by further restricting its oil trade.
“Making Iran broke again will mark the beginning of our updated sanctions policy,” Bessent said. He noted that US sanctions have significantly impacted the Iranian rial, which has lost half its value in the past six months.
US may target Iranian oil tankers in strategic chokepoints
According to a Reuters report citing six sources, the Trump administration is also considering inspecting Iranian oil tankers in strategic waterways such as the Malacca Strait in Asia. This move is part of a broader effort to cut off Iran’s primary revenue source and further constrain its financial capacity.
Iran acknowledges economic struggles amid US sanctions
Amid escalating pressure, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed parliament on Sunday, acknowledging that Iran’s oil exports are increasingly facing challenges due to enhanced US enforcement measures. He noted that Iranian tankers now struggle to unload their cargo, adding to the country’s growing economic uncertainty.
As Washington continues its hardline approach, the future of US-Iran relations remains uncertain, with the possibility of negotiations or further escalation.
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