The Kabul Tribune (KT) — The Wall Street Journal reported that the White House is weighing a last-minute Iranian offer to resume diplomacy over its nuclear program, even as U.S. President Donald Trump is leaning toward authorizing new military strikes on Iran, according to U.S. officials.
The report said some senior administration officials, led by
Vice President JD Vance, are urging Trump to pursue negotiations with Tehran
before taking military action. This comes amid unrest in Iran linked to
economic difficulties and government repression, during which human rights
groups say hundreds of protesters have been killed.
Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday, Trump
said Iran had sent a message indicating its willingness to enter nuclear talks
and that preparations for a meeting were underway. He added, however, that the
United States was still considering “very strong options” ahead of any
discussions.
According to the report, Trump has not yet made a final
decision and is expected to meet senior advisers on Tuesday to review possible
courses of action. These could include military strikes, cyber operations, new
sanctions, or increased support for anti-regime messaging. Some officials have
cautioned that military action could strengthen Iran’s internal narrative that
foreign powers are behind the protests.
The Wall Street Journal noted that while Trump currently
favors military action, officials say his position could change depending on
developments inside Iran and further internal discussions. Some advisers
believe the president could strike first and then seek negotiations afterward.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Monday that
Tehran is ready for negotiations based on “mutual respect,” but warned that
Iran is also prepared for war if talks are not possible, according to the
report.
The report added that some U.S. officials remain skeptical
about Iran’s intentions, arguing Tehran may be seeking to delay action while
preserving its nuclear capabilities. White House Press Secretary Karoline
Leavitt said Trump generally prefers diplomacy but remains open to the use of
force.
The Wall Street Journal reported that the administration is
weighing the risks and potential benefits of renewed negotiations at a time
when Iran faces widespread domestic unrest and weakened regional allies, while
acknowledging that talks could also bolster the legitimacy of Iran’s current
leadership.
