On Saturday, President Trump asserted that Iran is eager to see an end to the ongoing conflict. However, he emphasized that he is not prepared to finalize a deal with Tehran until they demonstrate genuine commitment to the proposed conditions.
Speaking to NBC News, Trump remarked, “Iran is looking to negotiate, but I’m not willing to proceed as the current terms are insufficient.” He stressed that any agreement would necessitate Iran’s full renunciation of nuclear ambitions.
The president highlighted that the prerequisites for an agreement must be “very robust” before he considers ceasing the US-Israel military operations. During the interview, he also speculated on the status of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Mojtaba Khamenei, questioning his visibility and influence.
Trump further explained, “The primary threat they possess, which can be swiftly neutralized, involves deploying mines or launching short-range missiles. However, once we secure the coastline, even that capability will be eliminated.”
“We’ve significantly diminished their missile arsenal and drone capabilities,” he added. “Their production of missiles and drones has been largely halted. In just two days, we expect to have completely dismantled their offensive resources.”
The president expressed doubts about Khamenei’s wellbeing, pointing out that the leader has been scarcely seen in public. Notably, Khamenei issued his initial statement via state television without appearing on camera, deviating from customary practice.
The skepticism comes amid reports that he was in a coma and had his leg amputated after being severely injured in the US-Israeli strikes that killed his father and other family members.
“So far, nobody’s been able to show him,” Trump told the outlet.
“I’m hearing that he’s not alive, and if he is, he should do something very smart for his country, and that’s surrender.”
Khamenei was named the new supreme leader last Sunday after the initial wave of strikes killed his father.
