Washington, May 29: US Treasury Secretary Scott Basset stated that Tehran is now discussing issues that previous US administrations could not bring to the negotiation table. The Trump administration claims that its strategy of military and economic pressure has successfully brought Iran to the table for discussions regarding its nuclear program.
During a press conference at the White House, Basset told reporters that recent events clearly indicate a shift in Iran’s stance and that Washington’s strategy is showing results.
He mentioned that President Trump has achieved what no other government has been able to do, preparing Iran to discuss its nuclear program and possibly agree to not pursue nuclear weapons.
These statements come at a time when the Trump administration is attempting to demonstrate a positive atmosphere for negotiations with Tehran, although it has not confirmed any news of a potential agreement.
Basset repeatedly emphasized that any future agreement would only occur if Iran agrees to certain key US conditions, including surrendering its high-level enriched uranium, abandoning efforts to develop nuclear weapons, and ensuring free passage of vessels in the Strait of Hormuz.
He also noted that military action and economic sanctions have compelled Iran to change its approach. “If you look at the results of military action and economic pressure, it is clear that this is why Iran has come to the negotiation table,” he stated.
The Treasury Secretary indicated that relief from sanctions would only be granted if Iran takes concrete steps. He added that discussions are ongoing.
“Nothing will be settled until the Strait of Hormuz remains open, and Iran acknowledges that it must surrender its high-level enriched uranium and cannot pursue its nuclear program,” he said.
Basset also claimed that recent events have weakened Iranian leadership, revealing a lack of coordination among its factions. He noted that the government, elected officials, the IRGC, and religious leaders are divided into three parts, struggling to communicate effectively.
While he stated that President Donald Trump desires a diplomatic solution, he warned that if negotiations fail, the US could increase pressure. “President Trump always prefers a peace agreement, but our patience has limits. If he believes a peace agreement is not possible, military action may resume,” he cautioned.
These comments reflect the administration’s broader strategy of presenting its Iran policy as a mix of pressure and negotiation. Officials assert that economic sanctions and military actions have not weakened but rather strengthened the US position in negotiations.