Washington, 01 May (H.S.): Amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, US President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that Iran must guarantee it will never possess nuclear weapons if it seeks peace. He remarked that even if America withdraws from Iran today, it would take the country 20 years to rebuild.

President Trump reiterated his claim that the US has already won the war in Iran, though this victory is minor. He asserted that a larger triumph is required, noting that Iran's navy, air force, and leadership have been decimated.

According to a CBS News report, Trump said, We have destroyed everything. If we pull out now, it would take them 20 years to rebuild everything. There's doubt they can even do it. America wants to do much more. He emphasized, Iran must guarantee it will never have nuclear weapons. Trump firmly stated that Iran is immediately ready to negotiate, dismissing notions that talks have stalled. He added, No one except me and a few others knows where the negotiations stand. Trump reiterated that America must secure Iran's enriched uranium stockpile under all circumstances.

He predicted that gas prices would plummet rapidly once the war ends. Meanwhile, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent noted that Iran's currency has hit its lowest level ever. Notably, tensions between Iran and the US remain at a critical juncture, with peace efforts ongoing amid war fears. Iran recently presented a conditional proposal to the US, suggesting reopening the Strait of Hormuz and postponing nuclear talks.

The coordinated US-Israel military campaign against Iran, launched on February 28, has impacted the entire Middle East. President Trump expressed skepticism about this proposal, displeased at sidelining the nuclear enrichment issue. The strategically vital waterway remains tense, with Iran threatening to close it for trade and reportedly laying tunnels.

Relief for India comes as Iran assured no restrictions on Indian ships passing through. Amid this, Russian President Vladimir Putin appears positioned as a peace broker. Iran has previously collaborated with Russia to devise a strategic encirclement against the US.

Opinions within the US on the Iran war are divided. While President Trump and some administration members favor military action, Vice President JD Vance and several Democrats worry about resource wastage and potential consequences. Reports indicate the US has spent nearly $25 billion on this conflict so far. Meanwhile, Iran is bolstering military preparations, with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps recently showcasing an advanced version of its Arsh drone in Tehran.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar