WASHINGTON – Former President Donald Trump announced Thursday that Iranian officials are contacting Washington seeking diplomatic negotiations while U.S. and Israeli military operations continue against Iran.
During remarks at a White House gathering with Inter Miami soccer team, Trump described the Iranian outreach: “They’re calling, they’re saying ‘how do we make a deal?’ I said you’re being a little bit late.”
The former president praised ongoing military operations against Iran, claiming they have severely damaged Tehran’s weapons systems and naval forces. Trump stated the strikes are eliminating Iran’s missile and drone capabilities, adding “their navy is gone – 24 ships in three days.”
Trump also issued a direct appeal to Iranian diplomatic personnel worldwide: “We also urge Iranian diplomats around the world to request asylum and to help us shape a new and better Iran.”
Iran’s United Nations mission in New York refused to provide comment on Trump’s statements.
Regarding energy markets, Trump indicated that oil prices have “pretty much stabilized” but suggested additional measures to ease pressure on petroleum costs would be announced shortly.
A senior White House official confirmed earlier Thursday that the Treasury Department plans to reveal new initiatives targeting rising energy costs, potentially including actions related to oil futures trading.
