Archive: The White House / Wikimedia Commons / Public domain
WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump said Monday that Qatar and Saudi Arabia want a peaceful solution to the conflict with Iran, but that the United States is ready to resume military strikes if necessary. He made the remarks in a brief phone interview, reported at about 3:30 p.m. ET, after meeting Qatar’s prime minister at the White House earlier in the day.
“Qatar would rather see a peaceful solution,” Trump said, adding that “we’re ready to go anytime we want.” Trump did not announce a new strike order in the interview. No deal has been announced and no deadline was given.
Context: the prime minister’s visit was the latest step in Qatar’s role as a go-between in indirect U.S.-Iran talks. As we reported earlier, the two met for about 45 minutes behind closed doors and no deal was announced. Iran has said it is impossible to move toward peace unless the U.S. lifts its naval blockade, releases seized assets and lifts sanctions.
Why it matters: Trump is pairing an offer of diplomacy with a threat of force, in a conflict that has already affected oil prices and the region’s shipping and security. Still unknown: whether talks will continue, what Iran will say in response, and whether any strikes are planned.
File photo: President Trump meeting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and delegations in Riyadh in May 2025. It does not show Monday’s meeting or interview.
JBizNews Desk | Washington
© JBizNews.com. All rights reserved. Unauthorized reproduction or redistribution is strictly prohibited.
