Trump considers Iran’s offer of indirect talks on nuclear deal, but doesn’t rule out strikes - Axios
The administration of US President Donald Trump is considering Iran's proposal for indirect negotiations on a nuclear deal. At the same time, the United States is increasing the presence of its forces in the Middle East in case Trump decides to launch military strikes.
Axios writes about this with reference to two officials, Censor.NET reports.
The publication notes that Trump has repeatedly said that he would prefer to reach an agreement with Tehran, warning that otherwise Iran could face a "bombing."
According to media reports, the US president gave Iran a two-month deadline to reach a deal, but it is unclear whether this countdown has begun.
It is noted that there is a debate in the White House between those who believe that a deal is possible and those who see the negotiations as a waste of time and advocate strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.
At the same time, the Pentagon is building up its forces in the Middle East. According to the publication, if Trump decides that time is running out, he will keep military forces ready.
Axios writes that on Tuesday, April 2, the US Department of Defense announced that it would send additional troops and aircraft to the Middle East, and two aircraft carriers would remain in the region.
The publication recalled that Trump recently received an official response from Tehran to a letter he sent to Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei three weeks ago. While Trump proposes direct nuclear talks, Tehran insists only on indirect contacts with Washington through Oman.
The Trump administration believes that direct talks would have a better chance of success, but the White House does not rule out the format proposed by Iran and does not object to Oman acting as a mediator, as it has in the past.
U.S. officials told Axios that no decision has been made yet, and internal discussions are ongoing.
"After the exchange of letters, we are now exploring the next steps to start talking and building trust with Iran," one of the officials was quoted as saying.
Earlier it was reported that President Donald Trump said he wanted to negotiate a nuclear deal with Iran. On Thursday, he sent a letter proposing such negotiations to Iran's leader.
Bloomberg reported that Trump asked Russian dictator Putin to help in nuclear negotiations with Iran.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said that negotiations with the United States would be held only if the United States treats Tehran with respect.
Iranian President Massoud Peseshkian said he would not negotiate with the United States when he is threatened.
