Trump says Iran deal still uncertain, signals possible “other way” if talks fail

U.S. President Donald Trump has said he has not yet decided whether to sign an agreement with Iran, while indicating that Washington is preparing alternative options if negotiations do not succeed.

“We'll see what happens. We're going to, we're working on a deal. And if that happens, fine. If it doesn't happen, that's okay, too. We'll do it the other way,” he said in an interview with the New York Post.

Asked what the United States would achieve by taking the “other way,” Trump suggested it would bring a decisive end to the issue.

“Certainty. It would be over. There wouldn't be any bullshit, there wouldn't be any talking. There wouldn't be any delays. But I’d rather do it the nice way, from a humanitarian standpoint,” he said. 

He also commented on the possibility of continued maritime restrictions affecting a key waterway, suggesting they could persist for months.

Trump added that such a scenario could extend through Labor Day on September 7, potentially leading to higher fuel prices and political consequences, including possible effects on Republican prospects in the November 3 midterm elections.

“I don’t know. I mean, I think it could be [closed through Labor Day], but I think it’s unlikely. I think that we’ll have it. I think this will resolve itself fairly quickly,” he said.

By Sabina Mammadli