During a television interview, President Donald Trump addresses the ongoing nuclear talks with Iran, setting a firm stance on the negotiations' ultimate goal.

According to the New York Post, Trump declared that he would only accept the "total dismantlement" of Iran's nuclear program as negotiations between Washington and Tehran continue to develop.

The president's strong position emerged during his appearance on NBC's "Meet the Press" with Kristen Welker, where he emphasized his vision for Iran's future while maintaining a hardline approach to nuclear weapons. His statement comes as members of his party have been pressing for clarity regarding the administration's objectives in the ongoing diplomatic efforts with Tehran.

Trump's vision for Iran raises diplomatic stakes

Trump expressed his desire for Iran's prosperity while maintaining an uncompromising position on nuclear capabilities. The president's remarks suggest a complex balance between encouraging Iran's development and preventing nuclear proliferation.

Trump addressed the possibility of Iran developing a civilian nuclear program, showing a slight openness to discussion. However, he quickly tempered this consideration with concerns about the potential military applications of civilian nuclear technology.

The administration's position appears to align partially with statements from Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Special Envoy Steve Witkoff, who have discussed reducing rather than completely eliminating Iran's nuclear enrichment program.

Military options remain on negotiating table

The U.S. administration continues to maintain pressure on Iran through various channels, including the threat of military action if diplomatic efforts fail. Israel has voiced strong support for using force to ensure Tehran's compliance.

Washington's strategy involves offering sanctions relief in exchange for Iran abandoning its nuclear program, which U.S. officials believe is aimed at developing atomic weapons. This approach combines diplomatic incentives with implicit military threats.

Trump told Welker:

Total dismantlement. Yes, that is all I would accept. I want Iran to be really successful, really great, really fantastic. … I just don't want them to have a nuclear weapon because the world will be destroyed.

Iran responds with diplomatic overtures

Iran's Foreign Ministry has maintained its commitment to continuing diplomatic discussions despite the mounting pressure. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei emphasized Iran's willingness to participate in negotiations.

The Iranian government continues to deny allegations about weapons development, insisting its nuclear program serves peaceful purposes. Officials in Tehran expressed readiness to participate in a fourth round of negotiations after a previous meeting was postponed.

Baghaei addressed concerns about the canceled Saturday meeting, attributing it to logistical issues rather than diplomatic breakdown. This response suggests Iran's continued interest in maintaining dialogue despite growing tensions.

Breaking down the nuclear standoff

President Trump's stance on Iran's nuclear program represents a significant moment in ongoing U.S.-Iran relations. His demand for total dismantlement of Iran's nuclear capabilities during the NBC interview establishes a clear benchmark for any potential agreement between the two nations. The diplomatic situation remains complex, with Iran expressing a willingness to continue negotiations while maintaining its right to peaceful nuclear development. As talks progress, the U.S. administration balances between diplomatic engagement and military preparedness, with support from regional allies like Israel for a forceful approach if negotiations fail to achieve desired outcomes.