WASHINGTON—U.S. President Donald Trump said his administration was pressing ahead with diplomatic efforts aimed at a broader agreement with Iran over its nuclear program, signaling a renewed emphasis on negotiations after recent military tensions and weeks of indirect contacts between the two countries.
Speaking this week, Trump said the United States and Iran were "getting along very well" and described recent discussions as constructive, while reiterating that Washington's central objective remained preventing Tehran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The White House has not announced a final agreement, and U.S. officials have said negotiations remain ongoing.
Technical-level talks between U.S. and Iranian representatives have been held indirectly in Doha with Qatari mediation, according to U.S. officials and a source familiar with the discussions. The meetings have focused on implementing understandings reached after recent hostilities, nuclear-related issues, maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz and measures intended to reduce the risk of renewed conflict.
Trump has publicly maintained that diplomacy is his preferred course while emphasizing that military options remain available if negotiations fail. According to U.S. officials cited by multiple media outlets, the president recently reviewed military options but decided to continue pursuing talks rather than authorize additional large-scale strikes.
Iranian officials have also acknowledged contacts through intermediaries but have been more cautious in describing progress. Tehran has repeatedly said that any lasting agreement would require clarity on sanctions relief and mutual commitments, while insisting that decisions on its nuclear program remain subject to its own national interests. Iranian officials have not confirmed that a comprehensive agreement has been reached.
The renewed diplomatic effort follows months of heightened regional tensions and military exchanges that raised concerns about a wider conflict in the Middle East. A memorandum of understanding reached earlier this year established a framework for continued negotiations and temporary de-escalation measures, though many of its provisions still require further negotiation and implementation.
Analysts say significant obstacles remain, including the scope of sanctions relief, verification of any nuclear commitments and the durability of future arrangements. Previous agreements between Washington and Tehran have faltered over implementation disputes and changes in U.S. policy, leaving investors and regional governments closely watching the current negotiations.
No date has been announced for a final agreement, and U.S. officials have said discussions are expected to continue through indirect diplomatic channels in the coming weeks.
