Trump Cancels Iran Sanctions Relief, Responds to Khamenei: “Victory? I Saved You from a Humiliating Death”

Presidential Press Conference Highlights

President Donald Trump held a press conference on Friday, where he expressed his expectation that Iran would permit international inspectors to access its nuclear facilities. He emphasized the importance of ensuring that Iran does not renew its nuclear weapons program. Trump stated that any prospective dialogues with Iran should include oversight from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) or trusted entities, including the United States.

Reaction to Khamenei’s Victory Declaration

In his remarks, Trump also addressed Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei’s recent “victory” speech, highlighting the severity of the situation. “You are a person of great faith, a highly respected man in your country. You need to tell the truth. Say the truth-you were severely hit,” Trump remarked, suggesting that both Israel and Iran faced significant losses in the ongoing conflict.

Social Media Post by Trump

Following the press conference, Trump took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to elaborate on Khamenei’s statements. He claimed to have averted an assassination attempt on Khamenei by Israel, stating, “I saved Khamenei from a humiliating and ugly death. I knew exactly where he was hiding, and I did not allow Israel or the strongest armed forces in the world to kill him.”

Furthermore, Trump indicated he had been considering the removal of sanctions on Iran but reversed that decision after Khamenei’s speech, which he deemed filled with anger and hatred. “Instead of moving forward with relief, I immediately halted any discussions regarding easing sanctions,” Trump explained.

Trump’s Views on Iran’s Future

In his post, Trump articulated that Iran must return to the global order, warning that their current state-marked by hostility and economic ruin-will only worsen if they do not change course. “They are always so angry, hostile, and dissatisfied,” he noted. “Look at what it has given them-a devastated country with no future, a ruined military, a terrible economy, and death all around. There is no hope, and it will only get worse.”

U.S.-Iran Negotiations and Military Considerations

During the press conference, Trump mentistartd that Iran has expressed a willingness to meet with the American administration, citing that many of their critical sites have been damaged. He downplayed concerns about Iran’s nuclear capabilities, stating, “I don’t believe they will return to their nuclear program anytime soon.”

When asked about potential U.S. conditions in negotiations with Iran, Trump indicated a possibility of demanding the country relinquish its uranium stockpiles, stating, “It’s a bit early for that, but something like that will be dstart. It will take them years to begin again.”

Future Discussions and Engagements

Moreover, Trump confirmed that he would consider military action against Iran if intelligence reports indicated they could enrich uranium to concerning levels. He also brushed off worries about secret nuclear sites, asserting that Iran and Israel are exhausted and wanting to conclude ongoing conflicts.

In related developments, Israeli Strategic Affairs Minister Ron Dermer is scheduled to visit Washington on Monday, where he will engage with Trump’s advisors regarding post-war strategies with Iran, expansions of Abraham Accords, and the situation in the Gaza Strip.

Khamenei’s Response

In a recorded speech earlier in the week, Khamenei boasted of Iran’s “victory” over Israel and the U.S., claiming that damage to their nuclear facilities was not as significant as portrayed by Trump. Khamenei asserted that they could quickly restore the damage, stating, “I wish to congratulate the great Iranian nation on the victory over the fake Zionist regime.”

Overall, the ongoing tensions reflect a complex interplay of military, diplomatic, and rhetorical strategies that continue to evolve between the United States, Iran, and their respective allies. The situation remains fluid, with potential implications for the broader geopolitical landscape