Trump Rejects ‘Desperate’ Label, Says Iran ‘Begging’ for Deal

U.S. President Donald Trump has pushed back against reports that he is urgently seeking a deal with Iran, declaring instead that Tehran is the party under pressure as conflict intensifies in the Middle East.

At a televised cabinet meeting, Trump struck a defiant tone, dismissing suggestions that he is searching for a quick diplomatic exit.

“I read a story today that I’m desperate to make a deal… I’m the opposite of desperate. I don’t care,” he said.

Trump claimed Iran had been significantly weakened by ongoing military operations and was now seeking negotiations.

“They want to make a deal. The reason they want to make a deal is they have been just beat to shit,” he said, even as Iran publicly denied entering direct talks.

His comments highlight a dual-track approach—combining escalating military threats with diplomatic overtures—as Washington attempts to bring the conflict to a swift conclusion.

The U.S. president also pointed to what he described as a goodwill gesture from Iran, saying it allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the Strait of Hormuz.

Yet, he simultaneously raised the possibility of seizing Iranian oil resources, underscoring the hardline posture underpinning negotiations.

Trump suggested progress was ahead of schedule compared to the initial four-to-six-week timeline set after the February 28 offensive.

However, uncertainty remains over the next steps, with Trump signaling he may or may not extend a looming deadline tied to the reopening of the vital oil transit route.

Meanwhile, U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff disclosed that a 15-point proposal had been sent to Iran via Pakistan, citing “strong signs” of a potential agreement.

Trump also vented frustration at NATO allies for failing to provide sufficient support in securing global oil flows, warning of consequences.

“I’ve done a great favor for the world… I believe that’s going to cost them dearly,” he said.

Senior officials reinforced the administration’s stance, with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth summarizing the approach: “We pray for a deal… but in the meantime…the Department of War will continue negotiating with bombs.”

Africans Angle News