WASHINGTON, D.C. April 29, 2026 — President Donald Trump said the United States is making headway in negotiations with Iran but warned that any deal hinges on Tehran’s full commitment to abandon its nuclear weapons ambitions.
In a video clip released Wednesday by the State Department, Trump spoke from the Oval Office and described a shift to telephone diplomacy to streamline talks. “We’re having talks with them now, and we’re not flying anymore with 18-hour flights every time I want to see a piece of paper,” he said. “We are doing it telephonically. And it’s very nice.”
Trump noted that while he prefers in-person meetings, the long travel time for potentially unproductive sessions has made remote calls more practical. “They’ve come a long way,” he added. “The question is whether or not they’re going to go far enough.”
He then delivered a clear ultimatum: “At this moment, there will never be a deal unless they agree that there will be no nuclear weapons.”
The remarks underscore the Trump administration’s longstanding position that preventing Iran from acquiring nuclear capabilities remains a non-negotiable condition for any agreement. The comments come amid ongoing U.S.-Iran diplomatic efforts in 2026, which have focused on Tehran’s nuclear program, regional security, and tensions involving the Strait of Hormuz.
Earlier this year, Trump had signaled openness to direct engagement but canceled planned envoy trips when Iranian offers fell short, opting instead for more efficient phone-based negotiations.
The State Department posted the video without additional commentary, letting Trump’s words serve as the official update on the sensitive talks. As of Wednesday evening, the clip had drawn thousands of views on X.
No immediate response from Iranian officials was available. The White House has not announced further details on the timeline or format of future discussions.
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