Donald Trump said U.S. negotiators should not rush into a deal with Iran and that both sides must take their time [1, 2].
The stance comes as diplomatic efforts continue regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime chokepoint for global energy supplies. A premature agreement could risk the stability of the region or fail to secure long-term strategic interests.
Trump said to the Financial Times, "We’re not going to rush into a deal" [1]. He said that "both sides must take their time and get it right" [1]. The emphasis on patience is intended to ensure that any final agreement is proper and sustainable, rather than a hurried resolution to the current tensions [1].
According to reports, Trump also communicated his position to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, saying that U.S. talks with Iran should continue [2]. This approach suggests a strategy of prolonged negotiation to maximize leverage over the Iranian government.
However, reports on Trump's perspective on these diplomatic efforts have varied. While the Financial Times highlighted his call for careful timing, Middle East Eye reported that Trump said Iran talks make no difference [1].
The focus of the current discussions remains the maritime access of the Strait of Hormuz. Negotiators are tasked with balancing the immediate need for open shipping lanes with the broader geopolitical requirements of the U.S., and its allies [1].
“"Both sides must take their time and get it right."”
The tension between the desire to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and the refusal to rush a deal indicates a high-stakes diplomatic game. By prioritizing a 'correct' agreement over a fast one, the U.S. is signaling that it will not accept a suboptimal deal simply to resolve the immediate maritime crisis, even if it means prolonging the period of instability in the region.
