Trump Says Iran Nuclear Talks Progressing Well Amid Diplomatic Efforts in Qatar

US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that relations with Iran are significantly improving, describing the nuclear disarmament talks as progressing positively. Speaking to reporters, Trump expressed satisfaction with both sides' conduct, noting that Iran "has come a long way" and that "we are getting along great." These remarks coincide with ongoing technical discussions in Doha, Qatar, involving representatives from both countries. The primary goals of these talks include securing freedom of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and establishing a stable ceasefire.

Ahead of the negotiations, Jared Kushner, Trump's senior advisor and son-in-law, along with envoy Steve Witkoff, met with Qatar's Prime Minister, as Qatar serves as a key mediator alongside Pakistan. However, Kushner and Witkoff are not participating directly in the technical talks. Earlier reports from the Wall Street Journal revealed that Trump considered resuming full-scale military action against Iran and held discussions with Pentagon officials about potentially abandoning diplomacy in favor of renewed strikes. Ultimately, Trump decided to continue diplomatic engagement and is reportedly willing to extend the August 18 deadline for a nuclear agreement, while keeping military options open if talks fail.

US sources disclosed that Trump consulted Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Joint Chiefs Chairman General Dan Cain about possible additional strikes but believes further attacks could undermine diplomatic efforts and reduce the chances of dismantling Iran's nuclear program. Iranian officials indicated the talks focus on managing the Strait of Hormuz and establishing de-escalation mechanisms, differing from previous discussions held in Switzerland. Parallel technical meetings between Iranian delegates and Qatari and Pakistani representatives are also underway.

Iranian President Masoud Pezhkian tweeted that any agreement requires mutual commitment, emphasizing Iran's approach of rationality and respect in decision-making, alongside firm defense when necessary, in response to US threats and provocations.