Former U.S. President Donald Trump has confirmed the initiation of direct negotiations with Iran regarding its nuclear program, marking a dramatic shift in the long-stalled diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran. Speaking to reporters on Monday after a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump stressed that Iran “must never acquire nuclear weapons.”
“We are engaged in direct talks with Iran. These discussions have already begun and will continue on Saturday at a very high level,” Trump stated, adding, “I believe everyone agrees that reaching a deal would be preferable.”
The announcement comes after years of diplomatic freeze. During his first term, Trump withdrew the U.S. from the 2015 Iran nuclear deal—officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—which had lifted economic sanctions on Iran in exchange for nuclear restrictions. In response, Tehran began ramping up its nuclear enrichment activities, intensifying global concerns over proliferation.
Last month, Trump reportedly sent a letter to Iranian leaders, calling for a choice: return to the negotiation table or face heightened economic sanctions under his “maximum pressure” strategy. The message underscores Trump’s push for renewed diplomacy, despite historic tensions dating back to the 1979 Islamic Revolution, which severed formal U.S.-Iran relations.
Due to the absence of direct diplomatic ties, Switzerland’s embassy in Tehran has long acted as an intermediary. Additionally, past indirect dialogues have been facilitated through Oman’s Muscat process, though this is the first time Trump has confirmed direct bilateral talks.
The high-stakes negotiations are being closely monitored by global powers and regional stakeholders.
For ongoing coverage of U.S.-Iran nuclear diplomacy and Middle East security, visit LiveWorldUpdates.com.
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