President Donald Trump (R) said he has a lot of patience and plenty of time to reach a diplomatic deal with Iran.

The statement comes as the U.S. pauses military strikes after nearly two weeks of hitting the country [1]. This shift from active combat to a potential negotiating phase marks a critical juncture in the current escalation between Washington and Tehran.

Speaking at the White House, Trump said the Iranian government is now interested in diplomatic engagement. "Iran wants to come to the table and make a deal," Trump said.

The pause in military operations follows a period of intense aggression. The U.S. had been conducting strikes for nearly two weeks [1] before the current cessation of hostilities. Trump said the timing of this pause provides an opportunity for the two nations to find a resolution.

"I have a lot of patience and plenty of time to reach a deal with Iran," Trump said.

The administration has not yet detailed the specific terms of the proposed deal, or the conditions under which the military pause will remain in effect. However, the president's rhetoric suggests a strategy of applying military pressure followed by a willingness to negotiate from a position of strength.

The White House has not provided a specific timeline for when formal talks might begin. Trump remains the primary driver of these negotiations, emphasizing his personal patience as a tool for diplomatic leverage.

"I have a lot of patience and plenty of time to reach a deal with Iran."

The transition from active military strikes to a period of 'patience' suggests a calculated shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Iran. By pausing attacks after nearly two weeks of engagement, the administration is testing whether military pressure has sufficiently incentivized Iran to return to the negotiating table. The outcome depends on whether this pause is viewed as a strategic opening for diplomacy or a tactical lull before further escalation.