US President Donald Trump has once again made a strong statement on Tehran amid tension between the United States and Iran. He claims Iran wants to reach an agreement with the US but does not know how to move the talks forward. Criticising Iran's military strength, economic condition and nuclear programme, Trump made it clear that Washington will not allow it to acquire nuclear weapons.
Wanting a deal, but where is the way forward for talks?
Addressing an election rally in Youngstown, Ohio, Trump said Iran wants an agreement with the US but does not know how to take the initiative for it. According to him, even though Tehran wants an agreement, the way to take the talks forward is not clear.
His remarks came as political activity was intensifying in the US ahead of the Congressional midterm elections on 3 November. At the rally, he repeated his administration's tough stance on Iran and said the US would not let it acquire nuclear weapons.
Trump targets Iran's military strength and economy
Referring to Iran's military capabilities, Trump claimed that its navy and air force are in a very weak state. He also criticised Iran over its air defence systems meant to protect against aerial attacks. The US president also commented on the country's economic condition, pointing to inflation and a shortage of financial resources. Trump also described Iran as a leading state sponsor of terrorism.
Trump predicts oil prices will fall
In his address, Trump also made a forecast about the energy market. He said oil prices were about to fall sharply. However, he did not give a timeframe for the possible fall or detailed economic reasons behind it.
The impact of US-Iran relations on the global oil market could be significant. Iran is among the major oil-producing countries, and the Strait of Hormuz, located near the Persian Gulf, is an important sea route for international oil supplies. Rising tension in the region could raise fears of disruption to supplies, while hopes of easing tension could influence market sentiment.
What happens next?
Trump's statement indicates that the US is not signalling any change in its declared position on nuclear weapons. However, it is yet to be known on what conditions Iran is actually ready for talks, and whether there will be a concrete move towards an agreement between the two countries.