The US President noted that military action depends on progress regarding Iran's nuclear programme and the Strait of Hormuz.
US President Donald Trump said on Sunday that he is highly unlikely to order American forces to resume military operations against Iran if Tehran makes progress in negotiations. According to reports from Times of India and ThePrint, the discussions involve Iran's nuclear programme and the reopening of the strategic Strait of Hormuz.
Speaking in a telephone interview with CNN, Trump stated that the necessity of strikes depends on whether Iran signs a "very strong agreement." He described Iran as a "failing nation" and noted that the country faced 301 per cent inflation this year.
Trump revealed that the US has identified 38 Iranian bridges that could be destroyed within one hour if military action becomes necessary. He added that he does not wish to destroy such infrastructure because bridges take years to rebuild.
The President claimed that previous American military strikes and economic sanctions have significantly weakened Iran's capabilities. He said the nation is "withering away financially."
In Tehran, adviser Mohamed Mokhber told Al Jazeera that it is "naive to tie our fate to Washington" and urged the government to focus on domestic economic resilience. Meanwhile, Brigadier General Shekarchi, spokesperson for Iran's Armed Forces, told IRIB that US military strategy has been ineffective.
Recent reports indicate ongoing tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. ThePrint noted that while Iran's state television suggested recent explosions in the area might relate to Iranian military activity, the US and Iran have both continued strikes on vessels in the waterway.
