WASHINGTON D.C April 16, 2026 – President Donald Trump expressed strong optimism about U.S.-Iran talks Thursday, declaring that Tehran “wants to make a deal” and has shown new flexibility on its nuclear program — a core demand of the administration.
In remarks captured on the White House grounds and shared by the official White House Rapid Response account (@RapidResponse47), Trump responded to a reporter’s question about possibly extending a ceasefire with Iran.
Full exchange (video transcript):
Reporter: “Are you considering extending the ceasefire with Iran?”
Trump: “With who? We’re doing very well, I can tell you. Maybe it will happen before that. I’m not sure if this needs to be extended. Just so you know, Iran wants to make a deal and we are dealing nicely with them. No nuclear weapons. That’s a big factor. They are willing to do things today they weren’t two months ago.”
The president’s comments come as the White House continues high-stakes diplomacy aimed at permanently preventing Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. Trump has repeatedly emphasized that “no nuclear weapons” remains a non-negotiable red line in any agreement.
The White House Rapid Response account posted the clip with the caption highlighting the president’s direct quote, underscoring the administration’s “art of the deal” approach to one of the most volatile foreign-policy challenges.
Analysts note the statement reflects a shift in tone following weeks of intense negotiations, with Trump suggesting a breakthrough could come sooner than expected — potentially eliminating the need for a ceasefire extension.
The video, filmed outside the White House with the Rose Garden and South Lawn visible in the background, shows the president speaking directly to reporters while a microphone is held toward him.
This latest update from President Trump arrives as markets have reacted positively to signs of de-escalation in the Middle East, with the administration maintaining that a strong deal protecting U.S. interests and regional stability is within reach.
Life News Agency will continue to monitor developments as negotiations progress.
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