WASHINGTON — March 26, 2026: President Donald Trump on Thursday cast renewed doubt on the likelihood of reaching a peace agreement with Iran, indicating that any meaningful progress would depend on Tehran’s willingness to shift its current stance amid ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Speaking during a Cabinet meeting at the White House, Trump emphasized that Iran must take the first step if a deal is to materialize. He expressed uncertainty over whether the United States is prepared to re-engage diplomatically, while dismissing claims that Washington is actively pursuing negotiations. Instead, he asserted that Iranian officials are the ones seeking to reopen talks.
Trump offered a mixed assessment of Iran’s position, acknowledging the negotiating capabilities of its leadership but criticizing the country’s military strength. He reiterated that the responsibility for de-escalation lies with Tehran and warned that US military operations would continue unless Iran changes its approach.
He also called on Iran to permanently abandon its nuclear ambitions, describing such a move as essential for achieving long-term stability and any potential resolution to the conflict. According to Trump, the United States will maintain its current strategy while closely observing whether Iran signals a willingness to compromise.
Earlier in the day, Trump voiced frustration over the slow pace of developments, cautioning that the window for reaching an agreement may be narrowing. At the same time, he attempted to minimize concerns about the economic impact of the tensions, noting that although energy markets and stock indices have experienced some pressure, the overall effects have been less severe than expected.
Still, rising fuel prices remain a key concern for American consumers. Data from AAA shows that the national average price for regular gasoline is nearing $4 per gallon, marking a significant increase over the past month. The surge in energy costs is adding pressure ahead of the upcoming midterm elections, where fuel prices often play a crucial role in shaping voter sentiment.
Trump acknowledged that oil prices could continue to climb in the near term but expressed confidence that they would eventually stabilize. Despite the uncertainty surrounding geopolitical developments, he suggested that the resilience of financial markets reflects sustained confidence in US leadership.
