Donald Trump just dropped a bombshell about the future of U.S.-Iran negotiations. The president spoke to CNBC about rising oil prices, naval blockades, and his ultimate red line for Tehran.
Donald Trump talks about Iran war negotiations
Donald Trump spoke to CNBC about the state of U.S.-Iran negotiations on Tuesday. He expressed indifference about whether talks had collapsed. “I don’t care if they’re over, honestly. I really don’t care. I couldn’t care less,” Trump told CNBC’s Eamon Javers.
Oil prices surged more than 7% following reports that Iran refused to continue negotiating. Trump acknowledged the price movement but dismissed concerns about rising costs. He accused Iran of stalling during the negotiation process. “I think they handled the negotiations poorly. It took too long,” he stated.
Trump also addressed the ongoing naval standoff in the Strait of Hormuz. He claimed Iran loses $500 million daily due to the U.S. blockade. “Our blockade is a lot tougher than their blockade,” he added. Iran reportedly tied further negotiations to Israel halting attacks in Lebanon. Trump confirmed he had not spoken to Netanyahu but planned to ask about Lebanon.
The president predicted oil prices would fall sharply despite the tensions. “I think oil is going to come down very much,” he said. He cited 1,700 oil-laden ships ready to enter markets as a stabilizing factor. Trump also promised gasoline prices would return to $1.85 per gallon once the situation is resolved.
Trump emphasized that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons remained his top priority. “If they want to try and have a nuclear weapon, I will blow them up to kingdom come,” he warned. He also criticized NATO and European allies for offering help only after hostilities ended. “Europe has lost its way,” he remarked.
When asked whether it was time to end the ceasefire, Trump declined to reveal his plans. “Why would I tell you?” he responded. He invited Javers to call the following day again for updates.
Originally reported by Vritti Johar on Mandatory.com.
