US President Donald Trump claims Tehran cannot make decisions concerning its nuclear programme without Washington’s approval, as Iran and the United States review proposals for a possible diplomatic agreement.
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES — WEB DESK: US President Donald Trump has said Iran cannot take any action concerning its nuclear programme without Washington’s approval, reiterating that Tehran will not be allowed to develop nuclear weapons.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office on Thursday, November 5, Trump was asked about reports that Iranian negotiators were reviewing a new proposal for an agreement aimed at restricting the country’s nuclear programme.
“They’re not doing anything without our approval,” Trump told reporters, adding that it did not matter what proposals Tehran was considering because Iran would not be allowed to obtain a nuclear weapon.
Trump warns of further action against Iran
Trump also indicated that Washington was considering whether additional action would be necessary to ensure Iran could not rebuild its nuclear capabilities.
He said he would prefer to avoid further destruction in Iran but did not rule out additional military action.
“I would rather not destroy the rest of the country if possible, but maybe I will have to. You will know soon enough,” Trump said.
His remarks came amid continuing tensions between Washington and Tehran and uncertainty over the future of diplomatic negotiations.
Iran sends nuclear proposal through Qatar
The US president’s comments followed reports that Iran had submitted a new proposal concerning its nuclear programme to Washington through Qatar.
A senior Iranian official told Reuters on November 5 that Tehran had sent the proposal through Qatari mediators.
According to the official, discussions would depend on Washington addressing seven Iranian demands. The United States was reviewing the proposal, although details of its response were not immediately available.
The diplomatic initiative comes as Qatar continues efforts to facilitate communication between the two countries.
Tehran and Washington remain divided
The United States has maintained that preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons is a central objective of its policy towards Tehran.
Iran, meanwhile, has repeatedly defended its nuclear programme and rejected allegations that it intends to develop nuclear weapons.
The latest developments highlight the differences between the two governments over nuclear restrictions, sanctions and regional security.
Despite Trump’s warnings, diplomatic contacts and mediation efforts continue, although no final agreement has been announced.
