WASHINGTON (AP) — President Donald Trump announced that forthcoming discussions between the United States and Iran represent the “last chance” for Iran to secure a deal and prevent further U.S. military actions. Trump made this announcement on Monday from the Oval Office as he expressed expectations that negotiations, aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz and addressing U.S. concerns regarding Iran’s nuclear ambitions, will commence within a day or two.
Trump outlined the process, stating, “The first phase is the opening of the straits. The second phase will be the denuclearization.” He acknowledged that denuclearization “will take a little while.” Although Trump has praised the U.S. military for weakening Iran’s leadership and military capabilities, Iran believes it can withstand Trump’s pressures as he confronts challenges such as reduced munitions stockpiles and the unpopularity of conflict among American voters ahead of the November midterm elections.
On Sunday, President Trump said that Gulf allies Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates had urged him to delay further strikes. Trump confirmed he postponed massive military actions planned for Sunday to give diplomacy a chance, following conversations with Gulf leaders, including Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as well as unnamed Iranian officials.
Despite these diplomatic gestures, Trump has conveyed growing impatience with Iran, stating, “This is the last chance for them to sign a good document.” Earlier, Trump criticized Iran, accusing it of “unbelievably duplicitous” behavior. His frustration stemmed from Iran’s claims about its meetings with Oman focusing solely on establishing safe navigation routes through the Strait of Hormuz for global oil trade. Trump countered, asserting discussions are taking place to prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons.
Trump has frequently threatened escalation with Iran, retreating from these threats several times since U.S. and Israel began strikes on February 28. When asked about the perception of making threats only to retract them, Trump explained his approach, linking patience with valuing Iranian lives. “I want to give them every last chance before decapitation,” said Trump. “Hopefully, they’ll come to their senses.” Critics perceive Trump’s actions as seeking a reset in strategy.
Sen. Mark Kelly, an Arizona Democrat, remarked on Trump’s approach during an interview on CBS News’ “Face the Nation.” He described the president’s strategy as erratic, suggesting Trump desires to revert to February status quo, and might welcome a chance for a strategic reset if available.
Various instances demonstrate Trump’s tendency to issue stern threats then pull back, citing progress influenced by his threats:
- In early April, a two-week ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran was announced moments before a deadline Trump had set for attacks on key infrastructure.
- On May 18, Trump halted a planned massive military strike, crediting Gulf allies for advising restraint due to ongoing negotiations.
- In June, Trump threatened severe action against Iran on social media, only to retract strikes after claiming peace talks advanced.
Such measures could require U.S. troops in Iran, politically risky for Trump, whose campaign emphasized avoiding foreign conflicts.
The recent postponement followed a significant call with the Saudi crown prince. Trump highlighted the crown prince’s influence in avoiding escalation; the prince suggested extensive conflict might harm the global economy by provoking Iran to retaliate against Gulf allies. Saudi officials emphasized confidence in defending against further Iranian strikes, with concerns raised over vulnerabilities faced by Kuwait due to Iranian-backed militias.
As Trump considers escalation, Republicans confront challenging polling. Despite Trump’s insistence that midterm elections do not influence his strategy, conflicting sentiments exist among Republicans. Polls from The Associated Press-NORC Center show two-thirds of U.S. adults disapprove of the war with Iran, with opinions from Democrats, independents, and 37% of Republicans reflecting this stance.
Louisiana Senator John Kennedy voiced on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that Washington discussions often overlook the devastation inflicted on Iran, yet warned further escalation risks spurring higher energy prices and inflation domestically. He advocated for maintaining current pressures, sanctions, and targeting Iran’s nuclear program over escalating military engagement. “They’re all hellish choices,” Kennedy said. “But for the moment, I’d maintain the status quo.”