Trump: Talks with Iran Underway, to Proceed in Two Phases

Odaily News – On August 3 local time, U.S. President Trump answered reporters' questions at the White House, stating that negotiations with Iran are currently underway. Trump said that regarding talks with Iran, the first phase is the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and the second phase is denuclearization. Trump emphasized that the U.S. maintains a firm stance: Iran cannot possess nuclear weapons. Additionally, Trump disclosed progress in the negotiations concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Trump stated that the Strait of Hormuz could potentially be reopened as soon as tomorrow. He also noted that the talks were initiated at Iran's request, with support from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and several other countries. He said that originally, "the U.S. was going to strike Iran with overwhelming force—more severe than any previous attack," but then Iran called, and Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar also called. Iran did not want to be hit, so it said it wanted to negotiate; they wanted to discuss the issue of the strait. Trump said, "This is Iran's last chance." Trump also said he would not allow Iran to charge fees for vessels passing through the Strait of Hormuz. (CCTV News)