Trump: ‘There Might Not Be a Middle East Today’ If Iran Had Nuclear Weapons

WASHINGTON, July 24: US President Donald Trump said Friday that a nuclear-armed Iran could have posed an existential threat to the Middle East, while confirming that Washington is holding talks with Tehran and has not yet decided whether to launch major new strikes.

Speaking to reporters, Trump warned that if Iran had obtained a nuclear weapon, the consequences could have been catastrophic.

“You saw that when they shockingly started shooting at everybody all over the Middle East. If they had a nuclear weapon, there wouldn't be a spot... there might not be a Middle East today,” Trump said.

Trump said the United States was currently engaged in discussions with Iran but stressed that no final decision had been made on expanding military action.

“We’re talking to them right now,” Trump said when asked whether major strikes should be expected. “While we’re talking, we’ll see what comes in.”

The US president said Washington had the option of continuing military operations against Iran “piece by piece” or escalating the campaign at a faster pace, but added that reaching a diplomatic agreement would be the preferred outcome.

Trump said Iran appeared increasingly serious about reaching a deal but warned that negotiations could still collapse. He reiterated that any agreement must guarantee that Tehran cannot develop nuclear weapons.

Asked who was involved in the talks, Trump said, “Sort of everybody,” and specifically mentioned Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as participants.

The comments come amid heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran following the collapse of a ceasefire and continued military exchanges in the region. Trump has repeatedly warned of further action while Iran has faced growing pressure over its nuclear programme and regional activities.