US President Donald Trump said on Friday (27 February) that while he remains unhappy with Iran’s reluctance to commit to giving up its nuclear weapons, he still hopes for a diplomatic solution – but warned that “at some point” the United States may need to use force.
As Trump left the White House for a trip to Texas, he told reporters that recent talks between US envoys and Iranian officials in Geneva had ended without a deal and that Iran must meet key US demands.
Talks continue despite tensions
Trump said further discussions on Iran would take place later on Friday, although he did not specify with whom those talks would take place. Top US defense officials were at the White House on Thursday for related meetings.
“We don’t want any nuclear weapons from Iran, and he’s not saying those golden words,” Trump told reporters, underscoring the U.S. position that Tehran must give up its nuclear weapons.
Military preparedness and use of force
Asked about the possibility of military action, Trump emphasized US strength, saying the country has “the greatest military in the world.”
“I would prefer not to use it, but sometimes you have to,” he added, suggesting that military force remains an option if diplomacy fails.
There is already a large American military presence in the Middle East, ready to act if the president orders.
Oman’s mediation efforts
Oman, which has served as a mediator between Washington and Tehran, sent its foreign minister to Washington on Friday for talks with US Vice President JD Vance, according to sources cited by Reuters.
The move underscores continued diplomatic engagement even as tensions remain high.
White House Perspectives
A source familiar with internal White House dealings told Reuters that Trump, who ordered bombing raids against Iran’s nuclear sites last year, has a “very clear idea of all the options before him.”
Officials concede that any conflict with Iran would likely be more difficult than a U.S. capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, and there is internal skepticism about the success of the talks, the source said. “No one is very optimistic about the negotiations,” they added.
