Trump says Iran ‘will never have a nuclear weapon’ under new deal and warns Israel over Lebanon – Middle East crisis live
Trump: Iran Will Never Have Nuclear Weapon Under New Deal
Trump says Iran will never have - President Donald Trump has made it clear that the upcoming US-Iran agreement will ensure Iran "will never have a nuclear weapon," a key assertion from the White House as the deal nears finalization. During a live update from The Guardian, Trump reiterated this commitment, emphasizing the deal’s role in stabilizing the Middle East amid growing concerns over regional conflicts and Lebanon’s involvement. The agreement, to be signed at the Burgenstock resort in Switzerland this Friday, includes terms that allow Iran to restart oil exports, a critical step in easing economic sanctions. However, US officials warned that Iran must maintain strict compliance with the terms to retain these benefits.
The Deal’s Strategic Impact on the Region
The US-Iran deal also safeguards the Strait of Hormuz, a vital shipping lane for global oil trade, by ensuring uninterrupted navigation through the waterway. This provision aims to prevent disruptions that could threaten energy markets worldwide. Trump’s assurance that Iran will not develop nuclear capabilities under the agreement has sparked debate among lawmakers, who are divided on whether the concessions offered to Iran are sufficient to secure long-term stability. The deal’s framework includes monitoring mechanisms to verify Iran’s adherence to its commitments, though details remain under review.
“Under this new deal, Iran will never have the means to acquire a nuclear weapon,” Trump stated, underscoring the importance of preventing the country from developing such capabilities. His remarks align with broader US strategy to curb Iran’s influence in the region while fostering diplomatic engagement.
Lebanon’s Role in Regional Tensions
Hezbollah, a pivotal force in Lebanon’s political landscape, has demanded that the US-Iran deal include conditions for Israel’s troop withdrawal from southern Lebanon. The group’s media office told Reuters that Iran will use the negotiations to push for this move, which it views as essential to its security. While the deal itself does not require Israel’s withdrawal, Hezbollah’s stance highlights the interconnected nature of the crisis in Lebanon and the broader Middle East. Trump’s warning to Israel over the deal’s terms suggests he remains vigilant about potential threats from the country.
Recent Israeli drone strikes in southern Lebanon have intensified fears of escalating conflict. The attacks, which killed four people and injured others, were seen as a test of the region’s stability ahead of the deal’s announcement. Hezbollah’s response to these strikes has been measured, but its position on the US-Iran agreement shows a readiness to leverage the deal for strategic advantages. The group’s leadership has also hinted at potential retaliation if the terms of the deal are not met, adding another layer of complexity to the negotiations.
Lawmakers and Diplomats Weigh In
Republican Senate leader John Thune has called for greater transparency, requesting the full text of the MOU from the Trump administration. His comments reflect growing scrutiny over the deal’s financial and security provisions. Meanwhile, China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, noted during a phone call with Pakistan’s Ishaq Dar that the next phase of talks with Iran will be more challenging. He urged the UN Security Council to take a more active role in supporting the agreement, highlighting the need for international cooperation to achieve lasting peace in the region.
As the deal moves forward, the Swiss government has confirmed its choice of the Burgenstock resort for the signing, citing its secure and isolated setting. This location was selected after earlier speculation about Geneva as the venue, with mediators from Pakistan and Qatar playing a key role in facilitating the discussions. The lifting of a two-month naval blockade on Iranian ports, announced by an Iranian deputy foreign minister, signals progress toward normalizing trade and easing economic pressure on Iran. However, the focus remains on Trump’s claim that Iran will not acquire nuclear weapons under the new agreement.