Iran Sees Trump Avoiding War, Using Pressure to Gain Negotiation Edge

Iranian leadership believes that U.S. President Donald Trump does not want to expand the conflict but aims to apply pressure to improve his bargaining position, according to a report by CBS on Monday. Iranian sources noted that Trump's repeated threats and subsequent retreats since April have reinforced the perception in Tehran that Washington seeks leverage at the negotiating table rather than a broad military confrontation. Tehran estimates it can withstand military and economic pressure while raising costs for the U.S. through its regional proxies, especially the Houthis in Yemen, and by threatening international shipping routes until Washington accepts there is no military solution.

Earlier on Monday, Trump sent a message to Iran via a Truth Social post, accusing the Iranian leadership of duplicity and stating that an agreement or total surrender must be reached. He claimed Iran was both requesting and denying talks, which he said would focus on reopening the Strait of Hormuz for international trade and dismantling Iran's nuclear program. Trump declared, "There will be a deal on Hormuz, and then a deal on the nuclear issue, or as I call it, Iran’s denuclearization."

However, hours later, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman and negotiation team member Esmail Baghai contradicted Trump, stating that Iran was not currently holding talks with the U.S. He explained that Iranian Foreign Minister's regional engagements aim to address insecurity and protect Iran's interests, with negotiations conducted through Oman focusing on securing a safe passage route through the Strait of Hormuz. Baghai emphasized that the arrangement with Oman would be temporary to ensure safe transit through the strait.

This exchange highlights ongoing tensions and mistrust between the two sides amid stalled nuclear negotiations and regional security concerns. The situation remains fluid as both parties navigate diplomatic and strategic pressures.