Trump confesses 'no idea' on Iran outcome as Hormuz mine threat clouds Pakistan negotiations
WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump on Saturday, April 11, said he is uncertain about the outcome of ongoing negotiations with Iran, stating “I have no idea” when asked about the prospects of the talks.
His remarks came as US, Iranian, and Pakistani officials began trilateral discussions aimed at resolving ongoing tensions.
The talks follow recent military developments amid a fragile diplomatic environment. Officials say the coming days will be critical in determining whether progress can be made.
Trump expresses uncertainty as Iran talks begin
In a phone interview with NewsNation, Trump confirmed that negotiations involving the United States, Iran and Pakistan were underway but declined to predict their outcome. When asked how the talks would proceed, he responded: “I have no idea.”
He added that the US would soon assess whether Iran was engaging constructively. According to Trump, the administration is monitoring Tehran’s actions closely and expects to determine “shortly” whether it is acting in good faith regarding efforts to resolve the conflict.
Trump also referenced developments in the Strait of Hormuz, a key maritime corridor, stating that US officials are aware of the placement of mines in the area.
He said the military is deploying equipment to address the situation, indicating ongoing operational activity alongside diplomatic efforts.
Tensions persist as talks proceed with Pakistan's mediation
While diplomatic discussions are underway, tensions remain elevated following warnings from Iran regarding US naval activity in the Strait of Hormuz. Iranian officials cautioned that any continued movement of US vessels in the area could prompt a response.
A Foreign Ministry spokesperson, speaking to Khabar Network and cited by Fars News Agency, said, “If the vessel continues to move, it will be targeted within 30 minutes, and the Iranian-American negotiations will suffer.”
The warning followed reports that multiple US vessels had recently crossed the strait for the first time in months without coordination with Iran.
The talks in Islamabad are being conducted face-to-face, with Pakistan acting as a mediator. Vice President JD Vance is leading the US delegation, accompanied by special envoy Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner.
Additional advisers and subject-matter experts are also participating, both on the ground and from Washington.
Iran’s delegation is reported to include dozens of representatives, including negotiators and technical experts. Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif met with Vance and expressed hope that the discussions could lead to broader stability.
In a statement, his office said the talks could serve as “a stepping stone toward durable peace in the region.” Further meetings between Iranian officials and Pakistani leadership are also expected.