Washington, D.C., March 26, 2026 — Donald Trump said that no one wants to lead Iran, claiming its top officials fear being killed either by the United States or by their own people.
Speaking at the NRCC Annual Fundraising Dinner, Trump said Iran is eager to negotiate but reluctant to openly admit it due to internal and external threats. “They want to make a deal so badly, but they are afraid to say it,” he said, adding that leadership in Iran is uniquely undesirable under current conditions.
Trump also claimed that his administration had “settled eight wars” and suggested similar success could be achieved in dealing with Iran. He emphasized ongoing negotiations and described U.S. actions in the Middle East as unprecedented.
Criticism of Nuclear Deal
Trump reiterated his opposition to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, the 2015 agreement between Iran and major world powers. He argued that the deal would have enabled Iran to develop nuclear weapons within a short timeframe.
He criticized former President Barack Obama for supporting the agreement, claiming it gave Iran excessive concessions despite objections from Benjamin Netanyahu.
Reference to Soleimani Strike
Trump highlighted the 2020 killing of Qasem Soleimani, describing it as a decisive move. Soleimani, commander of Iran’s Quds Force, was killed in a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad on January 3, 2020.
According to Trump, the strike significantly weakened Iran’s leadership structure at the time.
Rising Regional Tensions
Meanwhile, Iran’s parliamentary speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf warned that intelligence reports suggest possible plans by adversaries to seize an Iranian island. He stated that Iran is closely monitoring developments and would respond forcefully to any aggression.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi countered U.S. claims, asserting that Washington has failed to achieve key objectives, including a quick military victory or regime change.
U.S. Military Movements
The United States has increased its military presence in the region, including deploying approximately 2,000 additional troops from the 82nd Airborne Division. Amphibious units such as the Tripoli Amphibious Ready Group and the Boxer Amphibious Ready Group are also moving toward the Middle East.
Summary
The situation reflects escalating rhetoric and military positioning on both sides, alongside continued diplomatic signals. While Trump portrays Iran as weakened and eager for a deal, Iranian officials maintain that the U.S. has not achieved its strategic goals.
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