US President Donald Trump addressed his decision to go to war with Iran, denying that Israeli pressure had persuaded him to launch an attack.
"Israel never talked me into the war with Iran, the results of Oct. 7th, added to my lifelong opinion that IRAN CAN NEVER HAVE A NUCLEAR WEAPON, did," Trump said.
"I watch and read the FAKE NEWS Pundits and Polls in total disbelief. 90% of what they say are lies and made up stories, and the polls are rigged, much as the 2020 Presidential Election was rigged. Just like the results in Venezuela, which the media doesn't like talking about, the results in Iran will be amazing - And if Iran's new leaders (Regime Change!) are smart, Iran can have a great and prosperous future!" the president said.
Earlier, Trump said high-level US delegation, including Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and adviser Jared Kushner, was already en route to Islamabad for the next round of talks.
"We're supposed to have the talks," Trump said in a brief interview, brushing aside doubts over whether the negotiations might collapse. "So I assume at this point nobody is playing games."
Trump also made clear that he would agree to meet senior Iranian officials if a significant breakthrough is reached in the talks.
At the same time, Iran's official position continues to reject further talks between the sides, based on Tehran's view that discussions with the US cannot continue as long as the American blockade on the Islamic republic remains in place.
However, a senior Iranian official said that Tehran is positively considering participation in potential peace talks with the United States, though no final decision has yet been made.
The Iranian official said Pakistani mediation efforts were making positive progress toward ending the American blockade and securing Iran's participation in the peace talks.
The talks come days before the expiration of the ceasefire between the US and Iran, amid rising tensions in the region. Trump has signaled openness to a dramatic diplomatic step: a direct meeting with the Iranian leadership if the opportunity arises.
