Key facts
- President Donald Trump denied offering Iran sanctions relief and frozen funds for nuclear concessions.
- Trump called a report by Axios a "HOAX" and stated he "offered them NOTHING!"
- A US official said Trump is willing to offer sanctions relief for "concrete progress" on Iran's nuclear program.
- Trump rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as "unacceptable."
US President Donald Trump on Monday denied reports that he offered Iran sanctions relief and the release of frozen funds in exchange for nuclear concessions from Tehran. He characterized the story, published by Axios, as a "HOAX" and a product of "Trump Derangement Syndrome" on his Truth Social account.
However, a US official told CNN that Trump is willing to provide sanctions relief and release frozen funds as part of a final deal, but only if Tehran demonstrates "concrete progress" on its nuclear program. The official described current discussions through mediators as "positive and constructive," but emphasized that a deal hinges on addressing nuclear issues.
Trump had previously rejected Iran's proposal to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, deeming it "unacceptable." He also indicated on Sunday that while Iran wants to make a deal, it is not the one he desires, suggesting they "overplayed their hand."
US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz echoed skepticism regarding Iran's proposal, telling CNN's "State of the Union" that Trump rejected it because he did not believe Iran was negotiating in good faith. Waltz described Iran's offer as a "cynical attempt to put something on the table that they knew was unacceptable."
According to a US official, Iran has expressed flexibility on nuclear issues, but both sides have not yet agreed on the timing of commitments. The official also noted that the US remains skeptical of Iran's promises, citing a violation of a previous memorandum of understanding by firing on commercial vessels.