President Trump on May 25, 2026, expressed support for a potential peace deal with Iran that would involve reopening the Strait of Hormuz and the regime agreeing to relinquish its stockpile of highly enriched uranium. However, he advised representatives not to rush into an agreement. Trump's remarks followed criticism from some Republican lawmakers regarding the proposed deal, which would allow the Islamic regime to remain in power while offering sanctions relief.
Trump stated that negotiations were progressing in a constructive manner and emphasized that the relationship with Iran was becoming more professional. He noted that the agreement would not be finalized on the same day, as negotiations have previously stalled despite appearing close to resolution.
The president compared his peace plan to the Obama-era Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, which he criticized as a poor agreement. He reiterated that Iran must not develop or procure nuclear weapons. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that Iran is committed to ensuring its nuclear program is peaceful, although he did not confirm reports about relinquishing enriched uranium.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the negotiations with Trump, emphasizing that any final agreement must eliminate the nuclear threat from Iran. The reopening of the Strait of Hormuz is seen as a potential solution to a global energy crisis exacerbated by recent conflicts.
Some of Trump's allies in Congress have urged caution regarding the deal, warning that it could empower the Iranian regime. Secretary of State Marco Rubio defended the administration's approach, asserting that the president would not agree to a deal that strengthens Iran's nuclear ambitions. Approximately 6,000 ships have been blocked from passing through the Strait of Hormuz since the beginning of U.S. operations aimed at preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons.
