Washington, June 14, 2025 — U.S. President Donald Trump stated that Iran still has a final chance to reach a nuclear agreement, despite the sharp escalation in its conflict with Israel. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Trump emphasized that the recent Israeli strike on Iranian territory should serve as a warning: either come to the table — or face destruction.
“They should have made a deal, and they can still make one while they still have something left,” Trump said, commenting on the aftermath of Israel’s large-scale assault on Iran’s military and nuclear infrastructure.
Trump confirmed that the U.S. was aware of Israel’s plans in advance but did not obstruct the operation. He described Israel’s actions as an “act of inevitable self-defense” and expressed his belief that force, rather than negotiation, is what could compel Iran to make concessions.
Meanwhile, Iranian officials announced that further talks with the U.S. are now meaningless. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei accused Washington of complicity, saying the diplomatic process had been “undermined under the control of the Zionist regime.”
Trump’s focus on keeping diplomatic channels open contrasts with the official stance of the State Department, which previously denied involvement in the Israeli operation and continued to promote the importance of negotiation. Nevertheless, Trump’s words signal a strategic shift: the White House no longer rules out military pressure as a means of bringing Iran to the table.
The Israeli strike, conducted overnight on June 13, marked the largest military operation against Iran in decades. According to Tehran, at least 78 people were killed and more than 300 injured. Iran responded the next day by launching hundreds of ballistic missiles and drones toward Israeli territory. Despite Israel’s air defenses, several projectiles hit densely populated areas, causing civilian casualties.
Amid escalating tensions, Iran suspended its participation in diplomatic efforts, including a planned negotiation round in Muscat set for June 15.
