U.S. President Donald Trump hinted at the possibility of the United States remaining in Iran and taking control of its oil, drawing parallels to its operations in Venezuela. His comments come as the war persists and diplomatic actions around the Strait of Hormuz intensify.
Trump indicated that the U.S. might control Iranian oil "similar to what was done in Venezuela" if it decides to stay, noting that the revenue from Venezuelan oil has offset war costs "many times over," in his words.
Regarding the course of the war, Trump mentioned it could conclude before or shortly after the upcoming U.S. midterm elections in November.
Trump: Iran Seeking Agreement
While visiting Ireland, Trump stated that Iran is "eager" to reach a deal with the United States but emphasized that he will not agree to a settlement that doesn't meet U.S. conditions.
He added that Tehran is "constantly reaching out" for talks, saying: "They need to come up with the right agreement... I won't make them a bad deal."
Trump reiterated the U.S. stance that it will not allow Iran to possess nuclear weapons.
Postponement of Salalah Meeting
Trump's statements coincided with Oman's Foreign Minister Badr Al-Busaidi announcing the postponement of a regional meeting scheduled for Monday in Salalah, involving Iran and Gulf states, without setting a new date.
The meeting, called by Oman, was to address regional issues, particularly the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and proposals for regulating maritime navigation.
Reuters reported that the meeting was due to include foreign ministers from regional countries and their Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi.
A senior Iranian official told the agency that the meeting was not expected to conclude with an agreement on the strait, but would allow for discussion of proposals and related regional issues.
The official added that Tehran seeks an arrangement allowing it to collect fees from ships passing through the strait, a proposal opposed by Muscat, according to Reuters.
Bahrain announced its refusal to participate in any collective meeting involving Iran before restoring diplomatic relations, while affirming its support for Oman's efforts and commitment to dialogue and free navigation.