President Donald Trump delivered a firm message on Iran nuclear negotiations in an interview with ABC 11, saying Washington is prepared to walk away if talks do not produce a strong agreement. Speaking ahead of a anticipated gathering with leaders from the Gulf Cooperation Council, Trump stressed that the United States would either secure a deal that serves its interests or decline one entirely.
"Iran wants to make a deal; they're not ready, in my opinion," Trump said. "We're gonna either make a deal that's good, or we're not gonna make a deal at all."
The comments mark a notable public signal of the administration's negotiating posture, echoing a long-standing "maximum pressure" approach that has characterized US policy toward Tehran since Trump first took office. The statement also comes at a sensitive moment in regional diplomacy, with Gulf states closely watching how Washington balances its hardline stance against the possibility of renewed engagement with Iran.
Trump's remarks are expected to carry weight as he convenes with GCC leaders — including representatives from Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman — nations that have themselves been engaged in a complicated relationship with Iran, ranging from outright hostility to cautious dialogue. Several Gulf countries have recently signaled openness to de-escalation with Tehran, even as they maintain security ties with the United States.
Analysts note that Trump's dual messaging — pressing Iran while reaffirming American resolve — could shape the trajectory of any upcoming talks. The president did not provide specific timelines or details about the GCC meeting, but his comments suggest the administration intends to use the diplomatic forum to present a unified front on Iran before any potential bilateral discussions resume.
Diplomatic sources indicate that Iran has sent mixed signals in recent weeks, expressing willingness to negotiate under certain conditions while maintaining that it will not concede on core elements of its nuclear program. The administration's latest positioning appears designed to close the door on what it views as unfavorable terms before formal conversations begin.
