Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Thursday that Iran has agreed not to pursue nuclear weapons, suggesting that the U.S. and Iran are "very close" to reaching an agreement. The President hinted that the next round of negotiations between the two nations may occur as early as this weekend.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump shared these developments during a press briefing at the White House. He mentioned uncertainty about the necessity of extending a two-week ceasefire with Iran, which is nearing its expiration. Trump cautioned that without a deal, hostilities could resume. He emphasized the significance of Iran's commitment to forgo nuclear weapons, a commitment he described as "very powerful."
Trump elaborated on Iran's agreement to return its enriched uranium stockpile, which has the potential to be weaponized. He noted that Iran has provided a "very powerful statement" ensuring that it will not possess nuclear arms "beyond 20 years," dismissing any notion of a 20-year limit.
Expressing optimism, Trump stated that discussions with Iran are progressing well, with Iran seemingly agreeing to most terms. He even suggested that should an agreement be reached in Islamabad, he might travel there personally. Trump highlighted the potential economic benefits of such a deal, including reduced oil prices and inflation, as well as the prevention of a "nuclear holocaust."
When pressed about the timing of further negotiations, Trump indicated they might resume over the weekend. The initial round of talks, held in Islamabad last weekend, ended without an agreement. A critical issue remains the U.S. demand for Iran's firm commitment to abstain from seeking nuclear weapons.
Reports from the earlier talks in Pakistan suggest that the U.S. proposed a 20-year halt to all nuclear activities, while Iran countered with an offer to suspend its activities for up to five years.
In a related development, Trump also announced a 10-day ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon, set to commence at 5 p.m. on Thursday (Washington time). This agreement aims to halt the conflict between Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah group.