Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday that Iran has awarded the United States a "very significant prize" related to oil and gas, highlighting that negotiations are ongoing to end the conflict with the Islamic Republic.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Trump made these comments during the swearing-in ceremony for new Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin. This statement came a day after Trump postponed threatened U.S. strikes on Iranian energy facilities, extending his deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical channel for oil transport that has been obstructed by the conflict.
Trump described the gesture from Iran as a "present" that arrived recently, emphasizing its substantial monetary value. Although he refrained from disclosing the specifics of this "prize," he confirmed it pertains to oil and gas rather than nuclear issues, reiterating the ongoing negotiations.
"This shows we are dealing with the right people," Trump remarked, indicating a shift in leadership in Iran following U.S. strikes, which he claims led to "regime change." He noted that the current Iranian leaders differ significantly from those who initially caused the conflicts.
Trump also mentioned the involvement of key American figures in the negotiations, including Vice President JD Vance, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Jared Kushner, and special envoy Steve Witkoff. This diplomatic effort coincides with concerns over the economic impact of the U.S.-Israeli war against Iran on oil prices and inflation, factors that could influence voter opinions ahead of critical midterm elections.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the Pentagon is considering deploying approximately 3,000 troops from the 82nd Airborne Division to the Middle East to support operations against Iran. Officials have not finalized a decision to send ground troops, but such a move could provide Trump with several strategic options.
The U.S. military initiative against Iran, known as "Operation Epic Fury," is approaching the end of its first month. The campaign aims to dismantle Iran's missile capabilities, weaken its Navy, and prevent the development of nuclear weapons. The operation commenced with the killing of former Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on February 28. In response, Iran appointed his son, Mojtaba Khamenei, as his successor.