Trump gives Iran ‘one more opportunity’ to reach deal
2026-03-23 - 19:50
President Donald Trump issued a warning to Iran on Monday, stating that Tehran has “one more opportunity” to end the ongoing conflict and finalize a nuclear deal. Speaking at an event in Tennessee, Trump declared that the United States has “eliminated everything there is to eliminate” inside Iran, adding that Washington is “systematically dismantling the regime’s ability to threaten America.” Talks and pause on energy strikes Trump described reported discussions between the US and Iran as “very, very good,” though Tehran has denied that any negotiations are taking place. He said that based on the “tenor and tone” of these conversations, he ordered a five-day postponement of strikes on Iranian power plants and energy infrastructure—a move he framed as a diplomatic opening. “Hopefully we won’t have to do it, and hopefully we can make a deal that’s good for all of us, including the Middle Eastern allies that have been very good to us, including Israel, that’s been a great partner in this fight,” Trump said. Regional implications and Türkiye’s position Trump’s remarks come amid sustained US-Israeli military operations against Iran that began Feb. 28, which Iranian authorities say have killed more than 1,300 people, including senior leaders. Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf states hosting US assets, disrupting global energy markets. Türkiye, a key regional actor with ties to all sides, has consistently urged restraint and a diplomatic solution. Ankara views the temporary pause as a potential window to reduce tensions, though it remains cautious given Iran’s denial of talks and the continued volatility across the region.