Trump Says US Is Not Negotiating With Iran as Hormuz Crisis Deepens
President Donald Trump said the U.S. is not negotiating with Iran and said the war could end “very soon.” He said the U.S. could leave now but wants a lasting outcome. Brent crude rose 3.38% to $112.50 a barrel on Thursday.
On Wednesday, President Donald Trump said the U.S. is not negotiating with Iran while the Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed. Asked by reporters after returning from a rally in South Carolina, Trump replied, “No, I think we’re not negotiating,” and said, “We are going to have something one way or the other that’ll happen fairly soon.” He added, “Most people seem to think it’s after the election.” The remarks came amid reports that Tehran is prolonging talks to deny Trump a political victory before the Nov. 3 midterms.
They contrast with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi’s statement on X that Iran is open to renewed talks. Trump said at the rally that the U.S. could end its war with Iran now but wants to ensure the outcome endures. “It’ll end very soon,” he said.
“We could leave now, but we want to make sure it lasts for a long time.” Trump claimed the U.S. had defeated Iran militarily and financially, and said Tehran would “never have a nuclear weapon.” The New York Times reported on Wednesday that the U.S. and Israeli militaries have drawn up plans A report citing sources said renewed strikes on Iran could follow the midterm elections, but it remains uncertain whether Trump will approve them. The US and Israel launched strikes on Iran on Feb.
28. Iran retaliated with missile and drone attacks and effectively shut the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global energy supplies. A June memorandum of understanding mediated by Pakistan and Qatar has stalled amid disagreements, including over navigation through the strait. The Russia-Ukraine war has also contributed to volatile oil prices in 2026.
Brent crude rose 3.38% to $112.50 per barrel on Thursday, returning to five-month highs.