Trump Says U.S. and Iran "Very Close" to Nuclear Deal; Tehran Agrees to Limited Terms

Trump Says U.S. and Iran "Very Close" to Nuclear Deal; Tehran Agrees to Limited Terms

Doha, Qatar — May 15, 2025

President Donald Trump announced Thursday that a long-anticipated nuclear agreement with Iran is “very close,” signaling significant progress in talks aimed at achieving long-term peace between the two adversaries.

Speaking after a high-level meeting in Doha, Qatar, President Trump stated:
"We are engaged in serious discussions with Iran for lasting peace. It appears we’re moving toward a deal that would eliminate the need for military action. We don’t want to destroy Iran with nuclear weapons."
He added, "Iran has agreed to some limited conditions. We may be very close to a deal."

Trump’s remarks come at a time when Iranian officials have also expressed optimism about recent negotiations, while simultaneously criticizing new U.S. sanctions imposed during the dialogue.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Treasury Department placed sanctions on six individuals and twelve entities linked to Iran’s ballistic missile program. Washington alleges these parties were involved in supplying components necessary for missile production.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmail Baghaei commented:
"The talks were productive, but these sanctions impact our stance. This move contradicts the path of diplomacy."

Earlier this month, both nations held another round of talks in Oman and signaled willingness to continue future negotiations. Although Iran continues to insist on its right to enrich uranium, both sides appear determined to avoid further military escalation and seek diplomatic resolutions.

Trump Criticizes Iran in Riyadh

In a separate address delivered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, President Trump described Iran as “the most destructive force in the Middle East,” accusing Tehran of fueling instability across the region.
He stated, "Iran has been a source of suffering in Syria, Lebanon, Gaza, Iraq, Yemen, and beyond."

Outlook: Hopeful but Fragile

Analysts suggest that if the current diplomatic momentum continues and mutual trust is built, U.S.-Iran relations could enter a new chapter after decades of tension. However, the deal’s future remains uncertain, particularly over unresolved issues such as uranium enrichment and the continuation of U.S. sanctions.