ARAB AND WORLD

Sun 15 Mar 2026 9:05 am - Jerusalem Time

Trump refuses to negotiate with Tehran, confirms destruction of its military capabilities and securing the Strait of Hormuz

US President Donald Trump announced that the United States is currently not prepared to enter into negotiations to end the military conflict with Iran, despite what he described as Tehran's desire to reach an agreement. Trump clarified in a lengthy phone interview that the current conditions do not meet American aspirations, emphasizing the necessity for any future agreement to include strict restrictions ensuring the complete abandonment of nuclear ambitions.

The US President indicated that the joint military operations carried out by Washington and Tel Aviv have achieved tangible results on the ground since their launch last month. Trump claimed that the US military succeeded in neutralizing a large part of the Iranian arsenal, including the destruction of most ballistic missiles and drones, in addition to targeting vital manufacturing centers for these weapons.

Regarding human casualties, initial data revealed the deaths of 13 American soldiers since the outbreak of confrontations, the latest of whom were six crew members of a refueling aircraft that crashed in Iraqi territory. These developments come amid ongoing reciprocal attacks, where Tehran targeted what it describes as American interests in several Arab countries, leading to civilian casualties and widespread material damage.

Trump addressed the issue of global energy security, confirming that he had invited several major countries to contribute to securing the Strait of Hormuz, which is the lifeline for global oil supplies. He explained that countries such as China, France, Britain, and South Korea might participate in sending warships in coordination with Washington to ensure the waterway remains open for international navigation.

Despite escalating tensions, the US President refrained from confirming whether the US Navy would actually begin escorting oil tankers through the strait, but he described this option as 'very likely'. He also downplayed public concerns about the noticeable rise in fuel prices, considering that current efforts aim to secure long-term stability in the region.

Regarding the military targets hit, Trump confirmed the targeting of the strategic Kharg Island, which is the main center for Iranian oil exports, claiming that the strikes almost completely destroyed the island. These statements partially contradicted previous reports by the US Central Command, which confirmed precise strikes targeting only military sites while avoiding oil infrastructure.

Trump justified the discrepancy in statements about the duration of the war, indicating that military operations are progressing significantly ahead of their predetermined schedule. He added that US forces avoided completely destroying some vital energy lines to prevent taking many years to rebuild them in the future, despite hinting at repeating strikes in other locations.

In a controversial political context, Trump questioned the fate of Iran's new Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei, noting his complete absence from the public scene since taking office. The US President mentioned rumors about his death, confirming that no one has been able to prove his existence alive until now, describing the matter as a great mystery.

Trump refused to disclose the existence of communication channels with alternative Iranian leaders, merely stating that there are figures who can lead the country towards a better future. He affirmed that he prefers not to reveal any details related to these individuals to avoid endangering their lives under the current circumstances experienced by governing institutions in Tehran.

The US President expressed his surprise at the Iranian reaction, which included attacking other countries in the Middle East, considering that this escalation complicates the chances of reaching quick diplomatic solutions. He stressed that military pressure will continue until Tehran submits to Washington's conditions, which go beyond a mere ceasefire to a radical change in regional behavior.

Regarding international alliances, Trump indicated that his posts on 'Truth Social' reflect increasing international commitment to confront Iranian threats in waterways. He confirmed that coordination with allies and trade partners affected by the closure of the strait has reached advanced stages, with international naval reinforcements expected to arrive in the region soon.

Concerning the field situation in Iraq, sources clarified that the crash of the American refueling aircraft represents a logistical blow, but it will not affect the pace of ongoing air operations. Trump affirmed that the US military has the capability to resolve matters within a few days if operations continue at the current intensity, threatening to destroy almost everything.

Trump's administration faces internal criticism due to conflicting messages about the ultimate goals of the war, with analysts believing that contradictory statements aim to wage psychological warfare on the Iranian leadership. However, the White House insists that the strategic goal remains clear: preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and stopping its military influence in the region by all means.

Trump concluded his remarks by emphasizing that the United States will not be drawn into a 'weak' agreement as happened in previous periods, and that military power is the only guarantor of achieving lasting peace. Anticipation remains high in global markets and political circles, awaiting what the coming days will bring, whether field confrontations or behind-the-scenes diplomatic moves.

Iran wants to make a deal, and I don't want to make it now because the conditions are not sufficient, and any future deal must be very strict.

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Trump refuses to negotiate with Tehran, confirms destruction of its military capabilities and securing the Strait of Hormuz

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