Trump says Iran deal delayed by Israel strike, expects signing within hours
Key Points:
- US President Donald Trump stated that a long-anticipated agreement with Iran could still be finalized within hours despite a delay caused by an Israeli strike on Beirut, which disrupted the timing of the deal.
- Trump expressed anger at the Israeli attack, which occurred shortly before the planned signing, arguing it should not have happened amid near-breakthrough diplomatic efforts, while Iran condemned the strike and questioned the continuation of talks.
- Despite tensions, Trump and US officials, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, maintained that negotiations remain on track, with Qatar actively mediating to help finalize the agreement.
- Key unresolved issues include control over the Strait of Hormuz and the future of Iran’s nuclear program, with disagreements over the handling of enriched uranium and shipping rights complicating the deal.
- Iran’s top security body has decided to continue diplomacy despite the strike, while both sides emphasize the need to avoid actions that could derail the broader regional peace process.