US President Donald Trump on Thursday denied claims that he is “desperate” to strike a deal with Iran as the Middle East war enters its fifth week. Speaking at a White House cabinet meeting, Trump pushed back against reports suggesting he is seeking a quick exit strategy, even as global oil prices surge and political pressure builds to avoid a drawn‑out conflict.
“I read a story today that I’m desperate to make a deal,” Trump told reporters. “I’m the opposite of desperate. I don’t care,” he said, asserting that reports of weakness were false.
The US‑Israel military offensive against Iran began in late February following Tehran’s escalatory actions, including s on shipping in the strategic Strait of Hormuz and missile strikes on Israeli territory, prompting US forces to deploy Marines and naval assets to the region.
Trump mixed rhetoric throughout the meeting, blending warnings to “obliterate” Iran with suggestions that Tehran is seeking a deal. He said Iran had allowed 10 oil tankers to pass through the strait as a “present” — a sign, he claimed, that negotiations may be possible, although Iran denies direct talks.
Despite Tehran’s denials of seeking an agreement, Trump’s national envoy confirmed that Washington has circulated a 15‑point peace proposal through Pakistan in hopes of ending hostilities.
The conflict has severely disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for about a fifth of the world’s oil trade, contributing to steep price rises and increased economic anxiety globally.
Trump also criticized NATO and other allies for not doing more to secure the strait, calling some contributions “toys” compared with US military capabilities.
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