- On Wednesday, Trump told Al Jazeera he has “no time schedule” and is “not in a hurry” for Iran to return to talks.
- This Friday marks six months since the US war on Iran began.
- On Monday, the US announced enhanced sanctions on Iran and 60 entities in various countries, which officials have called an “economic D-Day”.
- In June, the US and Iran signed a 60-day memorandum of understanding addressing issues like transit through the Strait of Hormuz, sanctions relief, and nuclear talks; that agreement expired earlier this month.
- Trump justified his stance by saying “We are winning very big”, citing Iran’s “massive inflation”, collapsing economy, and mistreatment of protesters.
- Trump’s current comments depart from his earlier statements, as he had previously downplayed the conflict’s length, at one point saying it would be over in “four to six” weeks.
President Trump told Al Jazeera that he is 'not in a hurry' for Iran to return to negotiations, indicating a shift from earlier expectations of a swift resolution.
“I have no time schedule; whatever it takes,” he stated, highlighting the ongoing US war on Iran, which has now reached six months.2
The conflict began on February 28, with Trump previously suggesting it would conclude in 'four to six weeks'. The situation has deteriorated, with Trump noting, “We are winning very big,” as Iran faces massive inflation and a crumbling economy.
The US has recently intensified sanctions, targeting 60 entities globally, marking a significant escalation in economic pressure on Iran. This follows the expiration of a 60-day memorandum in June aimed at addressing key issues, including sanctions and Iran's nuclear program.3
As the US continues its military and economic campaign, the prospects for diplomatic engagement remain uncertain, with Trump’s comments suggesting a prolonged standoff.
“They’re treating their people very badly, they are killing many, many protesters,” Trump added, underscoring the humanitarian crisis in Iran amidst the ongoing conflict.
“The US and Iran signed a 60-day memorandum of understanding in June covering Strait of Hormuz transit and nuclear talks, but it expired earlier this month. On Monday, the US announced enhanced sanctions on 60 entities, dubbed an 'economic D-Day'.”
