Trump claims Iran to suspend nuclear program ‘unlimited’ as talks advance
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump said on Friday, April 17, that Iran has agreed to suspend its nuclear program indefinitely as part of ongoing negotiations to end the conflict between the two countries.
Trump indicated that a broader deal is close to completion. The comments come amid a fragile ceasefire and continued diplomatic efforts. Iranian officials have not publicly confirmed the claims regarding the nuclear program.
Trump says nuclear deal largely finalized
Trump said that key elements of an agreement with Iran are nearly complete.
“Most of the main points are finalized. It’ll go pretty quickly,” he said, adding that further talks on a lasting deal will “probably” take place over the weekend.
The president stated that Iran has agreed to suspend its nuclear program without a defined timeline.
When asked whether the moratorium would expire after a set period, Trump responded, “No years, unlimited.”
He also rejected the possibility of releasing frozen Iranian assets as part of the agreement.
Asked whether the United States would provide access to funds, including a reported proposal involving $20 billion, Trump repeatedly said “no,” indicating that Iran would not receive any frozen funds from the US.
Trump said he has not yet decided who would lead the US delegation in upcoming talks, though when asked about the possibility of traveling to Pakistan, where earlier negotiations were held,
Trump said, “I may.” Iran has not confirmed any agreement beyond earlier announcements related to maritime activity in the Strait of Hormuz.
Military posture shapes negotiations
The war, involving joint US-Israel operations against Iranian targets, disrupted regional stability and global energy markets.
Brent crude dropped more than 10%, falling below $89 per barrel, reversing much of the increase seen since the conflict began. Diesel prices in both Europe and the United States also declined.
At the same time, the US military has maintained its operational posture in the region.
Central Command chief Adm Bradley Cooper said the United States is prepared to sustain its naval blockade targeting Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz “for as long as necessary.”
The blockade remains in effect despite Iran’s earlier announcement allowing commercial vessels to transit the strait during the ceasefire.
Trump reiterated that position, stating the blockade would continue “UNTIL SUCH TIME AS OUR TRANSACTION WITH IRAN IS 100% COMPLETE.”
According to US officials, American forces continue surveillance and demining operations in the area.
Cooper said US forces have “eyes on every Iranian port,” using aerial and maritime assets to monitor activity.
