Trump plays coy on Iran strike decision: 'I'd rather not tell you'

When pressed by reporters Friday about whether he is nearing a decision on potential strikes, Trump responded coyly: "I'd rather not tell you. You woulda had the greatest scoop in history, right?" The president was in Texas preparing to deliver energy-related remarks when questioned about the escalating situation with Tehran.

Pressure on Tehran to negotiate

Addressing Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei directly, Trump urged Iran to reach an agreement, stating "they should make a deal but they don't want to quite go for it." He reflected on decades of conflict, saying "we've been playing with them for 47 years, and that's a long time, isn't it?" The president cited Iranian attacks that have "blowing the legs off our people, blowing the face off our people" and ongoing harassment of US vessels as reasons Washington "can't put up with it."

Dissatisfaction with diplomatic progress

Trump expressed frustration with the pace and substance of nuclear negotiations, which concluded their third round in Geneva Thursday. "I'm not happy with the fact that they're not willing to give us what we have to have. I'm not thrilled with that," he said, revealing that additional talks were expected Friday. He criticized Iran's approach, saying "it would be wonderful if they'd negotiate in good faith and good conscience, but they are not getting there. So far, they're not getting there."

Omani mediation continues

Meanwhile, Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, who has served as mediator between Washington and Tehran, met with Vice President JD Vance in Washington Friday. Albusaidi shared details of the negotiations and progress achieved, expressing optimism afterward: "I am grateful for their engagement and look forward to further and decisive progress in the coming days. Peace is within our reach." His remarks contrasted with Trump's more skeptical tone, highlighting the delicate balance as diplomatic efforts continue alongside military posturing.