Trump first reacted, then answered: 'Why would I use nuclear weapons against Iran?'
Translated from Turkish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- U.S. President Donald Trump stated he is in no hurry to make a deal with Iran, asserting that Tehran is under more time pressure.
- Trump questioned the idea of using nuclear weapons against Iran, stating they were defeated by conventional means.
- He cited political chaos and leadership uncertainty in Iran as reasons for extending a temporary ceasefire, aiming for the best possible deal rather than a hasty one.
President Donald Trump has articulated a clear stance on the ongoing situation with Iran, emphasizing that the United States is not rushing into any agreement. Speaking from the Oval Office, Trump asserted that Iran, not the U.S., faces the greater time pressure in negotiations. He dismissed the notion of using nuclear weapons against Iran, stating, "Why would I use nuclear weapons against Iran? We defeated them with conventional means, without using nuclear weapons." Trump's comments came during an event focused on lowering drug prices, where he also addressed foreign policy. He explained his decision to extend a temporary ceasefire with Iran by pointing to the "political chaos" and "uncertainty in leadership" within the country. Trump indicated a desire to strike the "best deal" possible, even if it takes time, rather than settling for a quick agreement. He also mentioned that Iran's oil exports are suffering significantly due to the Strait of Hormuz situation, costing them approximately $500 million daily. Furthermore, Trump claimed that his intervention led to the halting of executions for eight women in Iran, who are now expected to be released.
Why would I use nuclear weapons against Iran? We defeated them with conventional means, without using nuclear weapons. Nuclear weapons should not be used by anyone. So, no, I will not use them.
Originally published by Cumhuriyet in Turkish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.